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Hoboken resident Derby Chukwudi was crowned Miss New Jersey USA 2023 on Sunday, March 19, 2023 at the Hilton Parsippany Hotel in Parsippany, New Jersey.
Derby was crowned by Miss New Jersey USA 2022 Alexandra Lakhman and will now represent New Jersey at the 72nd Miss USA pageant.
“I am excited for this opportunity,” Derby shared on LinkedIn. “I am a definition of embracing new dreams and giving it your all. I didn’t grow up doing pageants. I started in 2021.”
She continues, “Here’s your friendly reminder that your dreams are valid and you need to put in the work to realize them.”
Derby is a Nigerian-American investment strategist, model, and motivational speaker.
The 25-year-old graduated from Berea College in Kentucky with a bachelor’s degree in business administration and economics. She was a leader on campus, participating in activities such as Berea Economics Association (Secretary), Black Student Union (Treasurer), and African Students Association (Treasurer).
In 2019, Derby took her leadership skills to JPMorgan Chase where she started her career as a private banking analyst. Executives at the global financial services firm encouraged and supported her personal and professional development goals.
“Thank you to JPMorgan Chase & Co.J.P. Morgan Private Bank for being a support system throughout my journey and making room for me to shine my light within and outside of work,” Derby posted on LinkedIn.
She adds, “A special shout out to Alma DeMetropolis, CFA, CFP® who was the first leader I shared my initial invitation to compete with back in 2021. All I remember her saying was “you have to go for it.” Your unwavering support has propelled me to the path of greatness and this is only the beginning.”
You can follow Derby’s journey as she competes for the title of Miss USA 2023.
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I’m Charlene and I’m the founder of Career Goddess Academy and Profit from Pageantry. If you are looking for success coaching to achieve your next goal, book your session now!