Abigaille Batu-Tiako, the current Miss Iowa 2024, is preparing to represent Iowa in the upcoming Miss America 2025 competition, which will take place from December 31 to January 5. Since being crowned in June, Batu-Tiako has embraced her role with excitement, reflecting on the honor and responsibility that comes with representing her state.
She describes her experience as Miss Iowa as thrilling, particularly enjoying the opportunity to engage with others and learn about their cultures.
A standout athlete, Batu-Tiako excelled in both track and soccer during her college years, becoming a nationally ranked track and field All-American in the long jump and setting a school record as the fastest woman since the 1980s.
Her dedication to athletics is rooted in a strong work ethic, which she refers to as having the eye of a tiger mentality.
Despite her success, Batu-Tiako’s journey has been marked by significant challenges, including periods of homelessness, financial instability, and food insecurity. She hopes that by sharing her story as Miss Iowa, she can inspire other young women across the nation.
Batu-Tiako expresses gratitude for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, recognizing the significance of her role, especially considering Iowa has never had a Miss America winner.
As Batu-Tiako heads into the Miss America competition, she is confident in who she is, embracing the possibility that not everyone will see her as “everyone’s cup of tea,” but knowing that is enough.