Miss Georgia contestant hopes to be first woman with indigenous heritage to win title

Yahoo

14-06-2025

COLUMBUS, Ga. () — The 80th Miss Georgia competition taking place in Columbus contains many talented and intelligent ladies from across the state. Brooke Marshall however, is hoping to be the first indigenous woman to hold the title.
The 20-year-old Miss Central Georgia representative says she is proud to be a direct descendant of the Muscogee Creek Nation and that she wants to share it with the world.
'We really lack representation and being able to show people that despite where you come from, you can still go and get an education,' Brooke said. 'Your path doesn't have to be linear and you should be proud of the roots that you came from.'
As Miss Central Georgia, Brooke describes meeting Chief David Hill and other Muscogee Creek Nation council members at an indigenous celebration in Macon.
'It was really cool getting to see all of the artwork and dances that they do. I've also been able to visit the Muscogee Creek headquarters in Oklahoma and their veterans memorial they have, which was cool because my dad's name is displayed there.' Brooke said.
Brooke says although she would get made fun of for her heritage when she was younger, it is now something she wants to highlight. Her talent in this weekend's competition is what she calls a 'Her-story' titled 'We Are Still Here' — it is a dramatic monologue that speaks on the progression of the Muscogee People.
'Its been a way for me to use my voice and get past anxieties that I struggled with in high school.'
As a cosmetology graduate of West Georgia Tech, Brooke plans to re-enroll in classes in the fall to continue her education in Marketing. She says whether she wins or loses, she plans on coming back in the next year, because the experience is what she loves the most.
'I believe that Miss Georgia is a process. Girls compete for years and years and it's all about growth and what you learn. I just believe that the opportunities that I've received and have been able to do this year is honestly the most rewarding thing of all in Columbus.'
Photos courtesy of Miss Central Georgia 2025, Brooke Marshall.
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