Gwinnett Daily Post

LAWRENCEVILLE -- Destiny Wright, 15, is known around Collins Hill High School as an athlete, excelling in soccer and volleyball, but something new has piqued her interest: competing in a pageant.

On Saturday, she joins other young hopefuls vying for the title of Miss Jr. Teen 2012, a pageant targeted towards girls between the ages of 13 and 15.

"I wanted to try new things and I wanted to gain confidence," Wright said. "And I have gained lots of confidence because now I'm more outspoken and more lady-like than before."

The ladies will be judged on modeling routines in casual and formal wear, plus a personal interview evaluation.

Wright has been training for the past month and a half and already has plans if she takes home the grand prize.

"I would give some to charity, some to my church (Promised Land Christian Church) and put some away for college," she said. "It would mean a lot to me to win. Even if I don't win, I've really enjoyed just being a part of the event."

The winner of the Miss Jr. Teen Atlanta title will represent Atlanta and the surrounding communities at the national competition in Orlando, Fla. More than $30,000 in prizes and awards will be presented at the national competition.

For more information, visit 2012missteen.com.