Tori Danyelle Washington, of Phenix, has been selected to compete in the 2016 Miss Teen pageant competition in Hopewell on Sunday, April 3.

According to a press release from Miss Teen, “Tori learned of her acceptance into this year’s competition when the pageant announced their selections following interviewing in the … Richmond area. Tori submitted an application and took part in an interview session that was conducted by this year’s Richmond Pageant Coordinator.”

Washington’s mother, Shilia Brinkley, said Tori is 16-years-old and is a sophomore at Randolph-Henry High School.

The release stated that, as a competitor in the Miss Teen Division, Washington will compete amongst girls ages 13-19.

The competition will consist of casual wear and formal wear modeling routines. Interviewing skills will play an important part in the overall outcome of the competition.

“Tori dreams of going to college to become a Veterinarian,” Brinkley said. She said in her spare time, Washington enjoys cheerleading, basketball horseback riding, track and field and playing softball.

“If Tori were to win the title of Miss Teen, she would represent Richmond and the surrounding communities at the national competition that will take place in Orlando, Fla.,” stated the release.

Each winner will have to opportunity to enjoy an all-expenses paid trip while competing for over $30,000 in prizes and awards.

Through sponsorships, Washington will receive training, rehearsals and financial support allowing her to to succeed in the pageant, according to the release.

I would like to thank the following people for believing in me and my dreams,” said Washington. “Whether you donated $10, $20, $25 or whatever, every donation counts.” Sponsors for Washington in this year’s pageant included Brock Robinson of Statewide Realty, Krystal Lynch Bryant of the Cuttin’ Post, Bill Tharpe of Charlotte Collision, Tammie St. John of Tammie’s Styling Salon, Deborah Spencer of Sassy Nails, Larry and Beth Shook of Larry’s Auto Parts and Keysville Express, Sandy Lester of Under the Sun, Gary Walker of Cornerstone Insurance, Steven Thompson of Charlotte Court House, Bryan Morris of Corbin Veterinary Services, Cheryl Spencer of Bridges Homes and Wendy Duffey of Southern Charm.

Washington said she truly appreciated the outpouring of love and support she has received from the community.

“She would like to thank her family and friends for standing by her and pushing her to succeed in all that she does,” Brinkley said.

Washington is the daughter of Brinkley, of Phenix, and Virginia and Gerald Washington, of Harker Heights, Tx.