Spotlighting Leah Scarmeas - More Than a Crown

This article is part of the Bloom Spotlight series, where we aim to recognize current and former military teens who are doing amazing things. If you know a current or former military teen (regardless of age) who is impacting the military community in a way that deserves to be recognized, visit our Bloom Spotlight page.

Leah Scarmeas is a senior in high school who is heavily involved and accomplished in pageantry. She holds the Miss South Carolina Teen USA title, achieved through her platform called “Rooted in Service.” Leah has also published a children’s book titled Brave Like Chewie. We interviewed Leah to showcase her unique accomplishments and to learn about her dedication and journey from the perspective of being a military teen.*

Describe your Miss South Carolina Teen USA platform, Rooted in Service, in your own words. What inspired you to start it?

“Rooted in Service” is my heart and my story. As a military child, I grew up experiencing the constant change that comes with military life – new homes, new schools, and having to find the courage to start over again and again. While those experiences shaped my resilience, they also showed me how easy it can be for military kids to feel unseen or disconnected. I founded this platform in my junior year of high school, while actively competing in pageantry. I knew I wanted to use my voice to make sure military children feel supported, valued, and proud of their unique journey.

Rooted in Service is about turning our challenges into strength and leadership. I started “Rooted in Service” because I know firsthand how powerful it is when someone reminds you that your story matters. I know what it feels like to be the “new girl,” saying goodbye to my dad for months at a time, and celebrating holidays with no family near us. Military children are incredibly strong, adaptable, and compassionate – I want them to know that their roots aren’t defined by one place, but by their courage, their character, and their commitment to serving others wherever they go.

What are some highlights of your Miss South Carolina Teen USA journey and your platform, Rooted in Service?

One of the greatest highlights of my journey has been the honor of competing on the national stage at Miss Teen USA in Reno this past October, representing South Carolina and military children across the country! Walking onto that stage was about so much more than competing – it was about carrying the stories, strength, and sacrifices of military families with me. I did not grow up competing in pageants, and didn’t start until I was in high school, so this was something I really worked hard for and a major goal of mine.

In addition, I was so proud to host my 3rd annual “Caffeine For Courage” campaign this past year as Miss SC Teen. This is an annual coffee donation drive where I organize and collect coffee donations to send to our service members overseas. It has been such a success, and the community loves to get involved. It’s a small way to give back and get others involved, while honoring those who serve our country.

What’s next for you in your Miss South Carolina Teen USA journey? Any particular goals or exciting plans?

One of my biggest upcoming initiatives is the launch of a “Purple Up” T-shirt fundraiser in honor of the Month of the Military Child. All proceeds will go toward purchasing and donating copies of my children’s book, Brave Like Chewie, to military bases and USO locations so more military children can feel seen, supported, and celebrated.

I am especially looking forward to April, when I will host award assemblies at local elementary schools to honor military-connected students and their families. I will also be working closely with my local school district to raise awareness, encourage participation in Purple Up Day, and ensure military children feel recognized and appreciated within their own communities.

Where can our readers follow you or get involved with your Miss South Carolina Teen USA journey and platform?

They can follow me on Instagram on my official titleholder account, @themissscteenusa, as well as @missleahmarly! I would love to connect!

Describe your book, Brave Like Chewie, in your own words. What inspired you to write it?

Brave Like Chewie is a children’s interactive coloring/activity book that I wrote and created for military children specifically! I felt like the niche of elementary-aged military children was underrepresented, and having younger sisters who are very creative really inspired me. I wanted something that these kids could connect with during a PCS… while traveling to a new home, in the car, or on a plane. I remember my mom reading bedtime stories to us off of the iPad when my sisters and I were younger and moved to a new home because all of our toys and books hadn’t arrived yet.

What is the message in Brave Like Chewie?

The core message in Brave Like Chewie is that military kids are stronger and braver than they sometimes realize. Through Chewie’s journey, my goldendoodle “military mascot,” the story encourages children to face new schools, moves, and changes with courage, kindness, and confidence. It reminds them that they are never alone, and that being brave doesn’t mean not being scared – it means trying anyway!

Where can our readers read Brave Like Chewie?

Brave Like Chewie can be purchased on Amazon! All proceeds go directly to supporting military family nonprofits. Here is the link: https://a.co/d/074ab6S9

How could someone start down the journey you’re on, either in pageantry or publishing a book?

Just go for it! Get out of your comfort zone! My mom always says, “You can’t grow if you don’t get out of your comfort zone!”

If you’re interested in pageantry, start small. There are lots of opportunities for small local pageants, which are great for newcomers and practice. Find a mentor or coach in the pageant community. That has been my biggest blessing in this journey!

As far as publishing a book, it’s easier than you think. I self-published through Amazon KDP and did lots of research to help navigate. Their platform walks you through it and really makes it foolproof! Start jotting down your ideas and utilize your notes app. Remember – anyone can be an author, regardless of age!

What’s something that you wish others understood about military life?

I wish more people understood that military life affects the WHOLE family, especially children. These kids often face frequent moves, new schools, and time away from a parent during deployments, all while trying to stay strong and adapt. Their resilience is incredible, and they deserve recognition and support for the sacrifices they make alongside their service member.

What words of wisdom do you have for other current or future military teens?

To just remember that every move, challenge, and goodbye is shaping you into someone strong, adaptable, and unique. It may not always be easy, but the experiences you gain and the people you meet along the way will help you grow in ways others may never understand. Be proud of YOUR story, and know that being a “military kid” is something truly special.

*Some responses have been edited for clarity while still trying to remain parallel to the original message.