Jane McIntosh, former Miss Nevada Teen USA 2022, is a junior at the University of Oregon, continuing to take the world by storm. At Oregon, Janae is keeping her go-getter attitude and is heavily involved around campus, especially in her sorority, Delta Gamma and has recently been elected to serve as Delta Gamma’s Social Chair, following her former position as Director of Social Events. Her inspiration for success? Pageantry.
Behind the Curtains
Ever since she was a little girl, Janae loved to dress-up. “I have always been known to be the entertainer — you know, the one who performs for the family and makes them watch my model walk.” Though Janae had a burning passion for the arts, she had no idea where it would take her.
Opening a New Door
As a senior in high school, Janae was recruited for pageantry. “It all happened so fast . . . I was unfamiliar with the system and had to learn how to go with the flow.” Janae recalls feeling lucky to make it to the preliminary. Shortly after winning the preliminary pageant, Janae competed for the state title, Miss Teen Nevada. “Once I won the preliminary, I had no idea I was expected to compete for the state title. I had to get working right away,” Janae recalls.
Underneath the Crown
Prepping for Nationals was the most challenging part for Janae on her journey. “The prep work for Nationals was more than I expected, especially the interview practices with my coach.” Janae recalls practices as being lengthy and meticulous. “I had to reword a lot of answers — answering different questions for almost an hour everyday.” Though the practice was tiring at times, the reward paid off in the end.
Winning the title of Miss Nevada Teen USA 2022 opened many doors for Janae. “After winning the title, I was hired as a monster energy girl and started modeling different designer catalogs.” Pageantry also ignited old passions for Janae, like entertainment. “I fell in love with the entertainment agency. So far, I have emceed an Oregon women’s volleyball game and I produced my own talk show called ‘Your Friend JC.’”
Creating Confidence From Within
Reflecting on her career as Miss Nevada Teen USA 2022, Janae has learned many lessons from holding the title. “The most memorable part of being Miss Nevada Teen USA 2022 was meeting so many girls around the nation — I was inspired by such dedicated women.” With the help of pageantry and the women beside her, Janae feels a greater sense of confidence and empowerment. “I’ve grown into the person I am today with the help of pageantry. I’ve become more confident in my skin — When you have to perform for over 2,000 people, you have to have that confidence to walk on stage.” For Janae, pageantry was more than just entertainment, but confidence and courage as well.
Janae’s Three Pieces of Advice for Young Women Entering Pageantry
- Go With the Flow:
“Learn to go with the flow. Sometimes, you may have five minutes to be on stage and find out your dress does not fit. Improvise and put your best face on no matter what.”
- Wear The Dress:
“A coach once told me, ‘wear the dress, don’t let it wear you,’ and I think that applies to everything in life. Embrace the experience, even if it’s uncomfortable, with confidence.”
- Create a Community:
“Pageantry is a great way to meet new people — many of my closest friends and mentors have joined me during my journey. Having a support system built on mutual support and empowerment makes all the difference.”
Janae’s Journey To Confidence
Janae’s journey from Miss Nevada Teen USA 2022 to model, talk-show host and producer, and social chair of her sorority, highlights the power of dedication, passion, and perseverance. With dreams of becoming a news anchor, Janae hopes to continue to empower other young woman to chase their dreams. To learn more about Janae, visit her LinkedIn, Instagram, or X.
KYRA JACKSON 
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