MIDLAND, Texas (KOSA) – Mackynlie Conklin, a West Texas native, has been crowned Miss Texas for America Strong and will compete at the national level in Las Vegas in September.
Conklin began her pageant journey at 16 years old in Midland. She also previously was crowned Miss Permian Basin in 2019.
Ten years later, she represents the state of Texas and owns and operates Model Haus, a West Texas beauty academy open to women of all ages who want to pursue pageant or modeling careers.
Conklin also said her connection to West Texas runs deep, and she’s proud to support the community that has supported her. She added that she stays actively involved locally and appreciates the people and places that make West Texas feel like home.
“I volunteer with a lot of different organizations from Senior Life, Meals on Wheels, to Fix West Texas”
Coaching others while competing
Conklin said her experience as a competitor has shaped her approach to coaching others at Model Haus.
“I think as a competitor, it’s very interesting to also coach somebody because you’re giving them the advice that you have learned — you have taken into your competition — but it’s also allowed me to fine tune a lot of the things I struggled with,” Conklin said. “But I also really enjoy the experience of getting to see other women just blossom and become who they are.”
Conklin is currently preparing for Miss for America Strong, which will take place in Las Vegas in September.
She will compete against titleholders from across the country.
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