JACKSON, Michigan – Classical dance trained Peyton Lowder looked at how women perceive body image.

“Seeing myself wearing clothes that made me look naked every day had a negative effect on my body image,” she said. I realized that I was dealing with the same thing, which is why I decided to have a therapist come in and talk to all the girls.”

The experience inspired Lowder, 18, of Jackson to become an advocate for women and mental health. This is the platform she will have when she battles for the Miss Her Michigan title in June 2023 after winning the Miss Her Jackson Her Crossroads Scholarship Pageant on August 6.

Related: These are the participants in this year’s Miss Jackson Crossroads Scholarship Pageant.

The daughter of Tracy Jackson and Shannon Lowder, and a recent graduate from Ann Arbor Pioneer High School, where her father is the principal, Lowder was a pleasant shock when she won the Miss Jackson Crossroads contest.

“Once the shock wore off, it felt like everything I had worked for had come true,” said Lowder.

Pageants and performances have been a big part of Lauder’s life.

“[Pageant]really hooked me. I started honing my interviewing skills, putting together community service, and ultimately falling in love with social impact efforts, eating disorders and education networks.” said Rowder.

When she decides to run for the Miss Jackson Crossroads Pageant, Louder is striving to create a safe place for women, so EDEN is an important cause for her focus. said.

One of Lauder’s biggest inspirations is her mother, who is a psychologist and owns A Healing Place LLC in Jackson. She said her mother’s concern for the mental health of others inspired her to help others.

“Mental health is very important right now. I think they’re recognizing that and giving people the support they need,” Lowder said.

Another way Lowder is helping women is through PJ’s Icy Closet. We rent dresses here for those who can’t afford to buy a dress for a one-night-only event.

“They just want something nice and quality that they only need for one night, so that’s what I do. I offer that service,” Lowder said.

Lowder plans to attend Jackson College in the fall to pursue a degree in business. She said she wants to be involved in her fashion so she can continue these services by opening her own dress shop.

Throughout her life, Lauder has also been active in theater, singing, and classical music. She knows getting ready for her Miss Michigan pageant is tough, but she said she’s ready for her challenge.

“It’s going to be a long process, but one I’m looking forward to,” she said.

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