Victoria Oluwakotanmi, a Nigerian-American, has emerged as Miss Grand USA 2026, marking another milestone in a career shaped by service, leadership and academic excellence.

Here are some things to know about the new beauty queen:

1. She is a chemical engineer

Oluwakotanmi has a professional background in chemical engineering, combining her technical expertise with interests in leadership and community development.

2. She is a U.S. Navy Reserve veteran

Beyond her academic and professional career, Oluwakotanmi served in the U.S. Navy Reserve, adding military service to her diverse experience.

3. She is passionate about mentoring young people

Oluwakotanmi has a strong interest in mentoring and developing young people, particularly those aspiring to become leaders in their communities and professions.

4. She has a Nigerian-American heritage

Her background reflects both her Nigerian heritage and American experience, giving her a multicultural identity that forms part of her story as she takes on the Miss Grand USA title.

5. She has moved across different fields

Her journey has taken her from academia and chemical engineering to military service, mentorship and now the pageant world.

6. She will represent the United States

As Miss Grand USA 2026, Oluwakotanmi will represent the United States on the international pageant stage.

7. Her story combines service and leadership

Her emergence as Miss Grand USA adds a new dimension to a career that has already included engineering, military service and youth mentorship.

Oluwakotanmi’s journey highlights how professional achievement, public service and leadership can intersect in different stages of a person’s life. (The Nation)