The MNUSA Team
Who We Are
Alicia Blanks
Founder & CEO
Alicia Blanks is a Newark NJ native. She is a passionate pageant advocate, strong choreographer, and dedicated teacher. She has modeled in many national magazines, and has been seen in several commercial campaigns. Her passion for pageants is one of her many reasons for creating Miss Newark USA.
Sabre Wise
Chair-woman of Judges
Sabre has been involved with pageants for over 10 years. With a dedication to style and fashion, Sabre has traveled the world inspired by so many cultures. Her style doesn’t stop with wardrobe, her talented hand at tufting creates works of art in any home.
Talia Day
Booking Manager & Public Speaking Coach
A native of Livingston, NJ, raised in Orlando, FL, and proud Newarkresident for the past 7 years, Talia is a dynamic individual distinguishedby her “passion for fashion”, dedication to learning, and commitment toservice.She pursued studies in Fashion Merchandising at Miami InternationalUniversity of Art & Design, subsequently founding Silent Renaissance,an accessory brand celebrated for its vibrant approach to Color,Creativity, and Charisma.As Director& Dean at Queen Corps Charm School, she empowers young womenand their families with a unique blend of etiquette and practical lifeskills.Her reign as Miss Newark USA 2023, encompassing a defining periodin her life, allowed her to inspire and serve youth, peers, and elders alikeas community members across the Greater Newark area.
Denise Brown
Choreographer
Denise is a Newark NJ native who has trained at various performing art schools throughout the state. She studied at Howard University and received her Bachelors of Fine Arts with a concentration in Musical Theatre. Denise is a former Miss Newark USA for the year 2020, she assisted as a contestant coordinator for the 2021 Miss Newark USA pageant, and choreographed the opening number of Miss Newark USA 2022.
Jade Wilson
Mistress of Ceremonies
A true advocate for pageants, captivating public speaker, with a dedication to serving others, Jade is far from unfamiliar to the pageantry stage. She held the title of Miss New Jersey ANTSO 2016/2017 and was first runner up to the national title. Jade has modeled for several designers in New York Fashion Week, and was recognized as an excelling student athlete at the "Breakfast of Champions" She graduated from Temple University with degrees in Sociology, Broadcasting, Telecommunications, and Mass Media.
Vanessa Martinez
Hair and Make Up Services
Vanesa Martinez is a proud Puerto Rican, Salvadorian, and Latinx native of Newark, New Jersey. A graduate of Barringer High School and a licensed cosmetologist from the Capri Institute, Vanesa has built a thriving career in beauty and self-expression. In 2020, she took a bold step and founded Beautyychick Studios, which has become a renowned destination for beauty services in New Jersey. With over 15 years of experience, starting her journey in 2007, Vanesa’s work has been featured in top magazines and showcased on celebrities and in film.
At Beautyychick Studios, Vanesa and her talented team go beyond traditional beauty services to ensure every client leaves satisfied. From humble beginnings, the studio continues to make a lasting impact in the community, seizing every opportunity to give back. Beautyychick Studios believes that true beauty comes from within, and their mission is to help clients radiate confidence and showcase their inner beauty through personalized services. Specializing in hair services, makeup, lash extensions, facial waxing, and permanent makeup, Beautyychick Studios is dedicated to elevating every client’s look and confidence.