Meet Emily Emmons | Miss Henry County 2025, Miss Georgia Contestant, Community Service Initiative is Your Mind is Your Business: Keep It Healthy

We had the good fortune of connecting with Emily Emmons and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Emily, what are you inspired by?
As a mental health advocate, I am constantly inspired by the people I meet. Hearing their stories — whether about their own struggles or the battles faced by loved ones — reminds me every day why this work is so important. Their courage, resilience, and honesty fuel my passion to keep speaking out and fighting for change.

I proudly serve as an ambassador for NAMI Georgia and work closely with the NAMI Henry Fayette affiliate. Through this role, I share my own mental wellness journey, speaking at high schools, civic organizations, and community events. Every conversation is a reminder that mental health touches every life, and that no one should ever feel alone in their struggles.

These experiences have made it clear that accessible, affordable mental health care is not a luxury — it is a fundamental right. We must prioritize effective legislation, ensure early intervention is available for all, and educate the public about the importance of mental wellness.

When we come together — informed, compassionate, and determined — we create a community that truly cares. That vision, and the incredible strength of the people I meet, continues to inspire me every single day.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am currently a student at Georgia Gwinnett College, majoring in Elementary Education with a minor in Music. I have a deep passion for working with children and for using education as a way to make a lasting impact on future generations. At the same time, music has always been a source of joy and healing for me, and I love being able to blend that creativity into everything I do.

My journey, however, hasn’t been an easy one. Right out of high school, I struggled deeply with my mental health. At one point, my future felt anything but bright. There were moments where hope seemed distant, and the dreams I had once believed in felt unreachable. But with a lot of hard work, support, and faith, I found my way through those dark seasons. I learned that healing is not linear, but it is absolutely possible. I always say, “It is OK to not be OK, but it is not OK to stay not OK,” and my own journey is a testament to that truth.

Today, I am thriving — personally, academically, and professionally. I am proud to say I am preparing to compete in the Miss Georgia competition for the third time, living proof that hope is never truly lost and that dreams do come true.

What sets me apart is my transparency and my unwavering belief in the power of resilience. I am not afraid to share my struggles, because I know that real connection and change come from honesty. I want the world to know that setbacks do not define us — our strength to rise after the fall does.

Through my advocacy work, my education, and my story, I hope to inspire others to keep believing in their dreams, even when the road is hard. I am passionate about using every platform I have to show that with faith, perseverance, and support, brighter days are always ahead.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend came to visit, I would plan an exciting week exploring Atlanta! One of the first things we would do is start a Tiny Door adventure. I first discovered a Tiny Door at the Fox Theatre, and ever since, I’ve wanted to visit all of them around the city. It’s such a fun and unique way to experience Atlanta’s creative spirit!

To make the most of the trip, I would definitely grab an Atlanta CityPASS. It’s the best way to visit some of the city’s top attractions without breaking the bank. We could visit the Georgia Aquarium, the World of Coca-Cola, Zoo Atlanta, and the College Football Hall of Fame — all included with the pass.

We’d spend time walking the Atlanta BeltLine, searching for street art (and more Tiny Doors!), and of course, we would have to stop at The Varsity for a classic Atlanta meal. No trip would be complete without taking in a show at the fabulous Fox Theatre — one of the most iconic and beautiful venues in the city.

Atlanta is full of creativity, culture, and fun, and I’d make sure my best friend got to see just how vibrant and inspiring this city truly is!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
There are so many people and organizations who have played a part in my journey, but I would first like to give all glory to God. My faith has been my foundation through every high and low, giving me the strength to keep moving forward, even when the path wasn’t clear.

I am also incredibly grateful for my mom, whose unwavering love, encouragement, and belief in me have shaped the person I am today. She has been my biggest supporter, my guiding light, and the one who constantly reminds me that my voice and my story matter.

I want to recognize NAMI Georgia and my local affiliate, NAMI Henry Fayette. As an ambassador, I’ve had the opportunity to share my mental wellness journey and advocate for mental health education and support across communities. The work I do with NAMI has not only helped me grow as an advocate but has also allowed me to connect with so many others who are passionate about creating real change.

I also want to thank Trina Pruitt and the Miss Georgia Board of the Miss Georgia Scholarship Organization for their incredible leadership and support. Competing in this organization has been one of the most transformative experiences of my life, and I am so thankful for the opportunities it has given me to grow, serve, and lead.

Lastly, I want to express my gratitude to my local directors, Betsy and Sarah Stallings with the Henry County Scholarship Organization. Thank you for believing in me, for providing me with a platform to advocate with purpose, and for supporting me every step of the way. Your faith in me and my mission means more than words can express.

I am beyond thankful for the faith, love, and community that have carried me to where I am today — and continue to inspire me every step of the way.

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Image Credits
Matt Boyd Photography/ Meredith Boyd Cosmetics
Georgia Senate Photos https://georgiasenatephoto.smugmug.com/Lieutenant-Governor-Burt-Jones/2025/Formal/3-3-2025