Representation matters. And in 2024, Black women in Iowa are making history and taking up space in incredible ways. On this special episode of the Black. Girl. Iowa. podcast, I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with McKenzie Kerry, our very own Miss Iowa USA, as she prepares to represent the Hawkeye State at the Miss USA pageant in Los Angeles.
McKenzie’s story is one of courage, determination, and confidence—a journey from North Carolina to Des Moines, from a shy book-loving girl to a powerhouse leader in business, community service, and now, pageantry.
“One of the first things I noticed when I took my trip out here before I moved— not a lot of Black faces. And to be able to represent this state… for the Black community is so special to me.”
Why Iowa?
After graduating magna cum laude from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, McKenzie could have gone anywhere—but she chose Des Moines. A leadership development role at Principal Financial Group drew her here, but it was her drive to build a life and community that kept her.
“I didn’t want to be one of those people who stayed in the same place my whole life. For the first time, I did the unexpected thing.”
She wasted no time getting involved. From Big Brothers Big Sisters to Iowa Jobs for America’s Graduates (iJAG) and DECA, McKenzie dove headfirst into making an impact—and showing up for others.
The Unexpected Pageant Journey
Here’s what might surprise you: McKenzie wasn’t a “Toddlers & Tiaras” kid. No glitzy updos or pageant circuits growing up. Instead, her love for pageantry sparked in the Bahamas during a family vacation when she stumbled upon the Miss Teen USA competition.
Years later, in Iowa, she saw pageantry as a way to connect to her new community and challenge herself. Her first-ever competition? Miss Iowa USA 2022.
- 2022: Second Runner-Up (third place)
- 2023: First Runner-Up (second place)
- 2024: Miss Iowa USA
“It was literally third place, second place… and then it worked out!”
Her perseverance is proof that when a goal is on your heart, you chase it—and keep showing up.
Preparing for the Big Stage
The lead-up to Miss USA (airing August 4th on the CW!) has been intense. With only one month between winning Miss Iowa USA and stepping onto the national stage, McKenzie has balanced her day job, fitness, wardrobe selection, and deep reflection on her why.
“There are two main responsibilities of a titleholder: serve her community and represent her community well on the national stage.”
While her time to engage deeply with local events has been compressed, McKenzie’s heart for leadership development and youth empowerment shines. Her passion is rooted in her own transformation—from an introverted teenager to a confident leader, all sparked by joining DECA in high school.
“How you present yourself matters. Body language and confidence will get you through the door.”
McKenzie embodies what it means to lead authentically—sharing tools, uplifting youth, and making sure the next generation knows they belong in the room.
Iowa on the National Stage
What excites McKenzie most about Miss USA? The chance to showcase Iowa, a state often overlooked but rich in diversity and community.
“Iowa flies under the radar. But we deserve to be recognized for the value we bring.”
She’s ready to make sure that Iowa’s voice is heard, its people seen.
How to Support McKenzie:
- Follow McKenzie:
- Instagram: @McKenzieArianaKerry
- Titleholder account: @MissIAUSA
This year, Iowa stands tall. McKenzie Kerry is proof that confidence, purpose, and community connection make queens—not just crowns.
Let’s show up for her. Let’s keep showing up for each other.
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