Presented by Black Girls Read & Rise FoundationRead. Rise. Reign.Established 2011

THE QUEEN ARCHIVES · VOLUME I

Every reign leaves a legacy.

A living, magazine-style record of the women who carried the crown through faith, scholarship, sisterhood, leadership, and service.

Black Girls Read & Rise Foundation queens and honorees
THE INAUGURAL CLASS2026WHERE THE LEGACY BEGAN
Aniya Duran, Black Girls Read & Rise Queen

CROWNED IN PURPOSE

01

Aniya Duran

Black Girls Read & Rise Queen

A current Black Girls Read & Rise queen representing literacy, confidence, leadership, and community impact.

Her reign reminds every future contestant that a title is not simply worn—it is used to open doors, build community, and serve with intention.

Amara, Black Girls Read & Rise Queen

CROWNED IN PURPOSE

02

Amara

Black Girls Read & Rise Queen

A current Black Girls Read & Rise queen helping young readers believe in their voice and their future.

Her reign reminds every future contestant that a title is not simply worn—it is used to open doors, build community, and serve with intention.

Lashawnti, Black Girls Read & Rise Queen

CROWNED IN PURPOSE

03

Lashawnti

Black Girls Read & Rise Queen

A current Black Girls Read & Rise queen celebrating the joy, confidence, and power that grow through reading.

Her reign reminds every future contestant that a title is not simply worn—it is used to open doors, build community, and serve with intention.

Alyssa Lawson, Black Girls Read & Rise Queen

CROWNED IN PURPOSE

04

Alyssa Lawson

Black Girls Read & Rise Queen

A current Black Girls Read & Rise queen serving as a literacy ambassador and emerging leader.

Her reign reminds every future contestant that a title is not simply worn—it is used to open doors, build community, and serve with intention.

Deonna Nichols, Black Girls Read & Rise Queen

CROWNED IN PURPOSE

05

Deonna Nichols

Black Girls Read & Rise Queen

A current Black Girls Read & Rise queen inspiring girls to read, rise, lead, and write their own story.

Her reign reminds every future contestant that a title is not simply worn—it is used to open doors, build community, and serve with intention.