Festival Queens Pageant

Hello, my name is Laikyn Kent, and I am honored to serve as Miss East 2025! This year, I have the incredible opportunity to represent Sciotoville East High School in the 2025 River Days Pageant, and I could not be more excited for this journey. I am the daughter of Tiffany Smith of Lucasville, a woman whose love and guidance have shaped me into the young woman I am today. Family is the heart of who I am, and I am blessed with three wonderful siblings, my big brothers, Devin and Landon, and my little sister, Braylee, who bring so much joy to my life. I am also blessed to be an aunt to two sweet children, Paisley and Colson. Beyond my academics, I have been actively involved in several organizations throughout my time at East High School. I have proudly served in Key Club and The Shield for two years, participated in softball, bowling and the dance team for one year, and currently hold the role of student treasurer for the junior class. Additionally, I am a member of Sources of Strength, a program dedicated to fostering resilience and mental well-being among students. East High School has given me so much, lifelong friendships, invaluable lessons, and a deep sense of community. I am incredibly honored to represent my school and my fellow Tartans in the 2025 River Days Pageant, and I look forward to making my school and community proud.

​

My platform, Hope After Hospital, is dedicated to raising awareness about Childhood Hospital Trauma and providing a voice for those who, like myself, have endured the lasting effects of serious illness and hospitalization at a young age. This cause is deeply personal to me, as it represents my own journey of resilience, healing, and advocacy. At just eight years old, I faced a life-threatening illness that no child should ever have to experience. In December 2015, I was diagnosed with E. Coli 0157 and was admitted to Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus, Ohio, where I remained for sixteen days. During my hospital stay, I developed Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS), a severe condition that impacted my kidneys and overall health. This was an incredibly challenging and frightening time, but I truly believe that God guided me through this experience so that I could share my story and help others. Nearly a decade later, my physical scars may not be visible, but the effects of my illness remain. I continue to face both physical and mental health challenges, and I have come to understand that the trauma of childhood hospitalization is often overlooked. Many children struggle in silence, feeling as though their pain is not valid or that their experiences do not matter. Through Hope After Hospital, my mission is to advocate for these children, provide support, and remind them that they are not alone. By speaking out, I hope to break the stigma surrounding Childhood Hospital Trauma and encourage open conversations about the emotional and psychological impact of serious illness in young patients. No one should have to navigate this journey alone, and through my platform, I am committed to ensuring that every child who has faced hospitalization knows that their story matters, their struggles are valid, and there is hope after the hospital.

​

Competing in River Days has been a dream of mine since I was a little girl. I remember watching in awe as the contestants took the stage, admiring their confidence, grace, and passion. Now, having the opportunity to be one of those role models for the young girls watching is truly a dream come true. I hope to inspire them the same way past contestants inspired me, to chase their dreams, believe in themselves, and always shine with confidence. As your Miss East 2025, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to the students, staff, and faculty of East High School for giving me this incredible opportunity. Our Tartan community is more than just a school, it’s a family, and I am honored to represent all of you. This title is more than just a crown; it’s a chance to make a difference, and I will wear it with pride. I hope to make my Tartan family proud every step of the way. Oh, how I love being an East Tartan! Go Blue!