By now, we’re sure everyone’s wondering… who is Sara Milliken? The 23-year-old plus size pageant beauty made headlines when she took home the National American Miss Alabama title this past May. Since then, Milliken’s name has been a showstopper globally, as her story and statement have proven to be the most applaudable yet.

With a core message of image acceptance, the National American Miss program focuses on confidence-building, real-world skills, and empowering mentorship for young girls/ladies ages 4 to 24.

Not too long after her controversial win, the committee wrote of their experience working with Milliken, “For decades, National American Miss ‘NAM’ has proudly celebrated all young women. This year in Alabama, Sara captivated the selection panel with her clear communication, poise on state, and extensive community service. Her message of body positivity and emphasis on never giving up on your goals is inspiring.”

Who Is Sara Milliken — All About Her Newfound Fame

At the tender age of 15, the Atmore, Alabama native received an open call letter from National American Miss and knew instantly that it was something she wanted to try out for. However, after two failed attempts, a defeated Milliken could only wonder if the third time would be a charm–and it was. The self-love activist was promoted to ‘Top 5’ before eventually earning the 2024 crown.

“I hope that [potential contestants will] learn that… no matter what your body looks like, no matter where you come from, you can do anything that you set your mind to,” she told WKRG. “I didn’t think that it was possible for a plus size girl to win. I didn’t think it was possible for a girl from small-town Alabama to win.”

According to Milliken, this time around, she spent a long 365 days preparing for the honorable competition. So, to make it as far as she did was a mind-blower for the Southern Belle.

She wrote in an Instagram post, “I blacked out after top 10. I had never placed before at a NAM state pageant. All the emotions because I knew no matter what happened I was better than my last performance. Somewhere between Top 10 and Top 5 and outgoing queen had ‘A Moment like This’ as her farewell song and it hit me. I truly had waited a lifetime for this moment.”

The Controversy Behind Sara Milliken’s Barrier-Breaking Win

Following Milliken’s victory, naysayers accused the National American Miss of “celebrating obesity.” The backlash came after the mental health advocate’s interview aired on WKRG and fellow publications picked up the groundbreaking story. 

“The pageant called Milliken a ‘trailblazer’ and a ‘gorgeous legend’ after her crowning. If we are to be honest, we all know that Milliken is neither a pioneer nor an innovator,” writer Gillian Thorp cruelly penned in an article on Medium. “When a significant portion of our population is obese, you can’t call someone a trailblazer for merely existing in that state.”

“Let’s be honest with ourselves,” Facebook critic Scott Eckles dropped in WKRG’s comment section. “She’s extremely unhealthy and this is a slap in the face to the young girls who have worked hard and maintained a diet to actually be a beauty queen.” 

Despite the odds against her, the rising model continues to flourish. Although the disgusting remarks bothered Milliken initially, she didn’t let them for long. 

What Is the NAM Queen Doing Now?

Milliken’s viral sit-down with the outlet reportedly garnered over 2,000 followers (collectively) and brought in a slew of sponsorship offers for NAM’s national pageant in Orlando later this year. It appears that she’s now gearing up for that, which is set to take place during Thanksgiving week.

Additionally, Milliken has rebranded her podcast, formerly titled Girls Gotta Glow, under a new name: Watch Me Org. The premise of the digital production will be “promoting body positivity and self-expression,” the Instagram bio reads.

She also runs an initiative in support of elders with cognitive disorders called The Buddy System.

Who is Sara Milliken to you? Drop your thoughts on this beautiful star’s triumph below!