Applications Now Open for ''The Essence of Ava'' Downtown Smithfield Scholarship Spotlight Pageant

SMITHFIELD, NC — Applications are officially open for "The Essence of Ava" Downtown Smithfield Scholarship Spotlight Pageant, an empowering scholarship opportunity open to all high school–aged female students residing in Johnston County.

Inspired by Johnston County native and Hollywood icon Ava Gardner, the pageant invites young women to celebrate their individuality, confidence, and ambitions. While famed for her beauty and talent, Ava was ultimately defined by her bold spirit, authenticity, and strong connection to her local roots. In her autobiography, Ava: My Story, she wrote, “If I could ever be born again, an education is what I'd want. My life would have been so different if I'd had one.” DSDC aims to use her words to inspire the next generation of local leaders to invest in their education and sense of self.

A Modern Approach to Pageantry

Rather than traditional ballgowns and high heels, the pageant focuses on personal authenticity and practical skills across five categories:

• Video Personal Essay: Share your story and perspective in your own words.
• "Sense of Self" Runway: Formal wear not required—wear an outfit that feels uniquely you, whether that is a volleyball uniform, a family heirloom, jeans and a t-shirt, or if that is a ballgown and heels - you go girl!
• Onstage Interview: Demonstrate public speaking and critical thinking under the spotlight.
• Talent Presentation: Bring the "WOW" factor with your unique personal talents.
• Panel Interview: Engage in a professional-style interview with judges.

Scholarships & Opportunities

The overall winner will be awarded the title of Miss Downtown Smithfield and receive "The Essence of Ava" $1,000 Scholarship. Two additional awards—The Essence of Johnston County and The Essence of Self scholarships—will also be presented.

"We are so excited for this opportunity for our Johnston County young ladies," said Helen Caloz, Events and Marketing Manager of the DSDC. "Ava's story has so much relevance to the world they live in today—social media has many pressures to conform, just like Hollywood, and knowing that we are sending future leaders into the world grounded in who they are is a wonderful thing."

Key Dates & Application Information

• Information Session: Tuesday, September 8 at the Ava Gardner Museum (for questions and details).
• Early Bird Perk: Apply by September 30 to receive one complimentary ticket to the Ava Gardner Festival Gala on Friday, October 2.
• Application Deadline: October 5 (Maximum of 20 participants accepted).
• Mandatory Pre-Competition Meetings: Monday, October 12 and Friday, October 23.
• Event Day: Saturday, October 24 at the Neuse Little Theatre. Rehearsals and panel interviews begin at 9:00 a.m., with the showcase starting at 6:00 p.m.

How to Apply

Applications are available online at www.downtownsmithfield.com. There is a $50 application fee; however, financial assistance and fee waiver scholarships are available so that cost is not a barrier for any interested participant.