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6-13-2025 6:57am
Apple Valley Sisters Crowned During Ms. Juneteenth Minnesota Pageant
Tom Akaolisa
Editor
Apple Valley Sisters Crowned During Ms. Juneteenth Minnesota Pageant
MINNEAPOLIS, MN – June 9, 2025 – The Miss Juneteenth Minnesota State Pageant, celebrating its second annual event, crowned two sisters from Apple Valley as queens in their respective divisions at the Trask Worship Center at North Central University in Minneapolis. Brielle Salifu and Nyelle Salifu, both residents of Apple Valley, took home titles during the inspiring celebration of Black history, culture, and empowerment.
Brielle Salifu was crowned Little Miss Juneteenth Minnesota in Division 1, for ages 6 to 9. Her sister, Nyelle Salifu, earned the title of Junior Miss Juneteenth Minnesota in Division 2, for ages 10 to 13.
The pageant, which saw over 30 contestants across six age divisions, emphasized not only poise and presentation but also a deep understanding of Juneteenth's historical significance and personal development. Contestants participated in workshops covering life skills, financial literacy, and the origins and purpose of Juneteenth.
The event, themed "Rediscovering Our Culture and Redefining Our Freedom," showcased the talents and intellect of young Black females from across Minnesota. Judging categories included an opening number, evening gown, and an onstage question and answer session.
The full list of crowned queens from the 2nd Annual Miss Juneteenth Minnesota State Pageant includes:
- Little Miss Juneteenth (Ages 6-9): Brielle Salifu, Apple Valley
- Junior Miss Juneteenth (Ages 10-13): Nyelle Salifu, Apple Valley
- Teen Miss Juneteenth (Ages 14-18): Khamani Washington, St. Louis Park
- Miss Juneteenth (Ages 19-24): Jailynn Brown, Brooklyn Center
- Ms. Juneteenth (Ages 25-30): Jailyn Newton, Eden Prairie
- Madam Juneteenth (Ages 31-39): Sannia Elzia, Mendota Heights
The Miss Juneteenth Minnesota State Pageant is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to providing a platform that offers services and resources, exposing young Black girls, teens, and adults to educational, networking, and career opportunities, including financial literacy and healthy lifestyle choices.
