Va. (WSET) — Two Virginia pageant winners are heading to the national stage just two months after earning their crowns.

Miss Virginia 2026 Maddie Marchant and Miss Virginia Teen Caedyn Riddle traveled to West Palm Beach, Florida, where they will compete for the titles of Miss America and Miss America Teen 2027.

For both contestants, the competition is about more than winning another crown. They say it is an opportunity to use their platforms to make a difference in their communities.

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Riddle, a Franklin County native, is Miss Virginia Teen and advocates for sexual assault awareness and prevention.

She has created resources designed to help children recognize trusted adults and find support.

“I have created a coloring sheet directly for children that teaches them how to identify five trusted adults in their life, such as teachers, coaches, directors, anyone that can make them feel safe even at a young age,” Riddle said.

Marchant, a Lebanon native and Miss Virginia 2026, advocates for people living with celiac disease, an autoimmune condition that requires those affected to avoid gluten.

She has been working with state lawmakers to expand access to safe food options across Virginia.

“I’ve also recently been awarded a grant that has allowed me to start the process of putting gluten- and allergy-friendly vending machines in public spaces with high foot traffic, including shopping malls across Virginia,” Marchant said.

Both women say they hope their time on the national stage will help bring more attention to the causes they have made part of their platforms.

The final coronation for Miss America and Miss America Teen 2027 will be held Sunday, Sept. 6, in West Palm Beach.