Literacy Champion Spotlight- Courtney Smith: Embracing the Magic of Literacy, My Journey and Advocacy

Courtney Smith, Ms. Voluptuous Michigan, pictured at the 313 Reads! Detroit's Literacy Coalition Black Children's Book Week Event.

Hey Champion Advocates, 

As your reigning Ms. Voluptuous Michigan, I'm thrilled to share my pageant platform and why it’s important “Readers are Leaders: Igniting Literacy.”  In my opinion, reading isn't just a skill; it's a superpower that has the potential to transform lives.

My childhood was marked with a rollercoaster of challenges, steeped in trauma. But books kept me grounded and provided a way of escape. As a child, there was nothing more enlightening than getting lost in a good book. It was a magical experience flipping through pages and getting lost in a whole new world! It wasn't just a distraction; it was my sanctuary, my safe haven. It provided me with hope.

Between those pages, my imagination soared. I discovered a world where possibilities were limitless. Despite the chaos around me, I could dream big and believe in something beyond my circumstances. Reading fueled my aspirations and gave me the courage to pursue my dreams. Those dreams manifested when I founded the Detroit Phoenix Center, a high impact nonprofit organization.

Detroit Phoenix Center's booth at Black Children's Book Week, an event held by the 313Reads! Literacy Coalition at the end of February.

I believe that every child should have access to that magic because it truly unlocks doors to other possibilities. That is why I have committed to championing literacy and access to books for youth. I'm a firm believer that every child deserves a chance to build a strong educational foundation. It's the key to unlocking their full potential and shaping a brighter future.

I am excited to partner with our community to be a voice that promotes book love and joy!

XO, 

Courtney Smith

Ms. Voluptuous Michigan

Pageant Platform: Readers Are Leaders: Igniting Literacy With Youth

Member of 313Reads Early, Family, and Community Literacy Table

Member of 313Reads Books in the D Workgroup

For more about Books in the D, visit here.

Courtney Smith, Ms. Voluptuous Michigan, pictured at the 313 Reads! Detroit's Literacy Coalition Black Children's Book Week Event.