Tanesha Townsend
Tanesha, Welcome to SevenFG…Tell us about yourself.
I was diagnosed with Discoid Lupus at 6 years old and physician’s statistics often placed me at a disadvantage from limited mobility to possibly losing my hair. As a strong and resilient individual, I decided to strive to be my very best self. I am intelligent, trustworthy, thoughtful, loving, and respectful to everyone. I am also optimistic, positive, and kind because I know how to fight through debilitating discomfort to complete daily tasks.
I began the journey of living beyond the statistics and limitations of Discoid Lupus. I was told that I would not have the physical strength and mobility to play sports. I was selected to be a part of the basketball team in grade school. Later, I was told college may not be the best route for my future due to memory fog and temporary memory loss. Not only did I graduate from High School, but I completed my Bachelor’s degree and Master’s degree with honors.
I now understand that I am great and truly capable of living beyond the statistics of Discoid Lupus. I no longer consider my experiences a curse but a blessing to be shared worldwide. Starting with a fundraiser for the Lupus Foundation of America titled “All Things Hair” to raise funds for research and awareness of the effects and stigmas associated with Discoid Lupus. This fundraiser later evolved into the SWAG STYLES Mobile Hair Styling where I specialize in waves to curls and kinks to coils with special attention to those with health concerns.
Recently, I resigned from my career in health to pursue dreams of hair and scalp education for women. I have completed my cosmetology license and instructor certification to ultimately obtain a trichology certification. I will continue to provide education to those with or without medically induced hair loss with hopes of stopping the narrative of what is considered “good hair”.
You are the reigning Ms. Texas All World Beauties 2024, tell us about your pageant system and platform.
I am with the National All World Beauties and Man of Distinction pageant system which focuses on the three pillars of inner beauty, empowerment, and service, that support the change we want to see and be committed to reigning with purpose.
“For the love of your crown” was created as the evolution of understanding Lupus. As a Lupus warrior of over 30 years, I have dodged stigmas, pushed through stereotypes, and become an advocate against medication trials with debilitating side effects and the possibility of losing my hair.
How did you get into pageantry?
I was introduced to pageantry by my sister competing in a local pageant. Watching her journey to the crown inspired me. I was able to see the personal growth, and an increase in confidence, and the relationship she developed is amazing. She showed me that pageantry is truly beyond beauty.
What advice would you give a young lady entering pageantry?
As cliche as this may sound, remember to always be yourself. I have spent so much time trying to think of what someone wants me to be when being myself was more than enough.
Where do you see yourself and your pageant career in the next 5 years?
I aspire to expand my platform “For the Love of Your Crown” to include training and resources for new delegates. I understand If you truly want to get the most out of pageantry it is imperative to learn the basic transferable skills such as effective communication, poise, and appropriate attire that are useful beyond pageantry.
What message is on your heart to share right now?
As the old folks say, “Favor Ain’t Fair.” This simply means, that what is for you will be for you and only you. Do not feel as though you should dim your light or hide your blessings to provide comfort for others. When God places favor on you and not someone else remember that blessing is specific for you and that no one can take it from you!
Where is your favorite place to go around DFW?
Currently, I don’t have a favorite place, but I would like to go to “In City Wheels” in Dallas Texas. They have a guided mural tour you can go through either in the day or night. The last time I attempted to go out was cancelled due to inclement weather, but it looks like so much fun!
What’s up next for you? How can people get in contact with you?
I plan on continuing my entrepreneurial journey and diversifying my educational services to incorporate various pageant systems/ agencies, nonprofit organizations, cosmetology schools, and health-related organizations.
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Follow me on IG@_swagstyles
This is the SevenFG media, so tell me, Queen, what makes you worthy of gracing SevenFG?
I believe in the vision and goals of SevenFG, and it is a blessing to be a part of the growth and progression of this entity. I’m thankful for the opportunity to share my pageant and entrepreneur journey.