From pageant stages to city halls, Dr. Lowona Crawford has spent decades shaping confidence, culture, and community. As the CEO and founder of both Miss Empire USA and the Southwest Riverside County–Inland Empire Juneteenth Organization (SWRC-IEJC), she has become a transformative force—blending elegance with advocacy and mentorship with movement.
Dr. Crawford’s journey began with early exposure to the entertainment industry and a historic high school milestone as Riverside’s first Black History Queen. But it was her daughter’s experience with bullying that reignited her passion. “Seeing Rikayah struggle because of the color of her skin was heartbreaking,” she shares. “But it reminded me of my calling—to help young women walk boldly in their beauty and brilliance.”
That calling turned into action. In 2009, Dr. Crawford launched Tri-Valley Pageants, igniting careers that led to Miss USA titles and even political leadership. When asked what values drive her success, she answers, “Faith, service, and resilience. These are the tools I use to build others up.”
One of her proudest initiatives is the Rites of Passage Ceremony, which honored 150 African American students with kente cloths and diplomas in its inaugural 2024 celebration. “This is legacy work,” she says. “It’s about creating moments that affirm identity and uplift generations.”
Beyond pageantry, Dr. Crawford’s impact is felt through SWRC-IEJC, where she leads empowerment conferences, gospel concerts, and the Coats for Kids initiative, offering winter warmth and self-esteem to underserved youth. Her work has earned her several honors, including a 2024 Proclamation from the City of San Jacinto and the Prestige Award of Merit.
Dr. Crawford lives her motto daily: “A person who loves God, trusts God. Not perfect, but yet forgiven.” Her story reminds us that true leadership is love in action—and the crowns she gives are only a reflection of the lives she lifts.
About Dr. Lowona Crawford
Dr. Lowona Crawford is the visionary CEO and founder of Miss Empire USA Pageant and SWRC-IEJC. With over 15 years in professional pageantry and decades of community service, she empowers women and uplifts underserved communities through education, events, and philanthropy. From hosting rites of passage ceremonies to founding the Coats for Kids initiative, her legacy is rooted in faith, resilience, and servant leadership. Her work has been honored by local government, state leaders, and community advocates alike. Dr. Crawford is also a wife, mother, and grandmother whose life mission is to elevate, equip, and empower.
