A Bermudian-born business owner, community leader and advocate based in the United States has been crowned Miss Arizona for America.

Abby Charles, who has roots in Smith’s Parish and is an alumna of The Berkeley Institute, lives in the state’s Phoenix and Scottsdale area. There, she has built a career across the Fortune 500 sector, government, non-profit leadership, corporate event planning, public relations and community advocacy.

Ms Charles is the founder of AZ PR & Events specialising in corporate event planning that brings together business leaders, community partners, public officials and philanthropic organisations.

Her work focuses on “polished, purpose-driven experiences that elevate important causes and inspire community action”.

Ms Charles will go on to represent Arizona on the national stage as she competes for the Miss for America title in Las Vegas at the end of August.

She said her journey to the nationals aims to amplify her message of leadership, service, cultural pride and “representation for Bermudians making an impact abroad”.

“This title is deeply meaningful because it allows me to honour my Bermudian heritage that helped shape who I am,” said Ms Charles.

“My values from our culture and my time at The Berkeley Institute taught me the importance of pride, resilience, faith, service and community.

“To stand on this stage as a Bermudian woman in the United States is a blessing that I carry with gratitude and purpose.”

Ms Charles has also been featured on National Public Radio, appeared in campaigns with Microsoft and the American Heart Association, performed the national anthem for a televised sporting event and produced a self-published her book on faith and health, titled The First Gift, in 2021.

She is also a former nationally qualified NPC bikini competitor.

Through her platform Network to Net-worth, Ms Charles is committed to empowering women and young girls to lead.

She also intends to use her platform as an opportunity to shine a light on tourism to Bermuda, the island she proudly calls home, celebrating its beauty, culture, hospitality and global significance.

As she begins her reign as Miss Arizona for America, she hopes to use her crown as a catalyst for greater visibility for the island she calls home.

To follow Ms Charles’ journey, community work and year of service, visit her Instagram pages @TheAbbyCharles, @MissAZForAmerica and on LinkedIn as Abby Charles.