An 18-year-old student from Georgia has created history by becoming the first Indian American to win the national Miss Teen USA crown.

Kiran Reddy from Douglas, Georgia, defeated contestants from all 50 states and the District of Columbia at the 44th annual Miss Teen USA pageant, held at the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts in Miami.

Her victory also gave Georgia its first-ever national Miss Teen USA title, marking a double milestone for the state and the Indian American community.

A historic national victory

Reddy had earlier made history by becoming the first Indian American to win the Miss Georgia Teen USA title. Her national victory has now taken that achievement to a larger stage.

Speaking after being crowned, Reddy said she felt blessed to represent both Georgia and the United States and to become the role model she had wanted while growing up.

Arkansas’ Raquel Olea was named first runner-up. Elisa Akin of New York, Kiersten Alvarado of Indiana and Chloe Bella Dietz of Texas completed the top five.

The crown was presented by last year’s winner, Mailyn Marsh of Missouri.

From school valedictorian to beauty queen

Reddy’s success extends beyond the pageant stage. She graduated as valedictorian of Coffee High School in Douglas and has since joined the University of Georgia.

She is studying biological sciences on a pre-medical track, with aspirations of pursuing a career in healthcare. Her academic journey remains an important part of her goals as she takes on her new national responsibilities.

Reddy began competing in pageants at the age of 15. She finished as first runner-up at Miss Georgia Teen USA in 2024 and second runner-up in 2025 before receiving the state title through an open casting call in June 2026.

A new international chapter awaits

As Miss Teen USA, Reddy is expected to take on a wider international role. She is scheduled to represent the United States at the Miss Teen Universe contest in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, in October.

The event will mark the first participation of the national organisation in the global competition.

Despite her new responsibilities, Reddy plans to continue her pre-medical studies at the University of Georgia while carrying out her duties as Miss Teen USA.