Tayler Mazingo, 18, is a senior at Jemison High School. She is the daughter of Kevin and Cindy Mazingo. She has a 7-year-old brother named Brody.
PEACH LIVING MAGAZINE: When were you named the 2014 Chilton County Distinguished Young Woman?
TAYLER MAZINGO: I received my title in July of 2013.
PL: Was this your first time to participate in this program?
TM: Yes, it was. You are only allowed to participate in the program prior to your senior year.
PL: How many participants were in the 2014 program?
TM: There were six participants in the program.
PL: Describe what this year’s program entailed for you and other participants.
TM: In this year’s program, the other contestants and I were interviewed by a panel of five judges prior to the program. Then we performed an opening number, a physical fitness and a self-expression routine, as well as a talent of our choice.
PL: Describe the program itself.
TM: The Distinguished Young Women program is a program based on scholarship, leadership and talent. Its purpose is to provide young woman with the opportunity to earn scholarships to help further their education by showcasing their many abilities. Participants are judged on their scholastic achievements, interview/communication skills, physical fitness, poise, how well they can express themselves on stage and talent.
PL: What made you decide to participate in the 2014 Distinguished Young Women program?
TM: I actually decided to compete in the program when I was in the seventh grade. I had watched many of our family friends compete and win, and that made me want to strive and work hard to hold this title one day.
PL: What aspects of the program did you most enjoy?
TM: I enjoyed the physical fitness and talent portions the most. I am a very active person, which made me enjoy fitness, and singing is my passion, so I loved being able to share it on stage. I also loved receiving scholarships that will help me further my education. I received $1,400 during the local program and an additional $750 from the college I plan on attending.
PL: What are your responsibilities and goals as Chilton County’s 2014 Distinguished Young Woman?
TM: As the Distinguished Young Woman of Chilton County, my job is to be a positive role model to all young women encouraging them to continually strive to be their best selves and to represent our local program at the state competition, which was held in January. I had the most remarkable time with my host family and all of the girls from around the state. My goal is to motivate the young girls in Chilton County to participate in this amazing program, not only for the scholarships, but for the memories, friendships and life skills that are obtained during it.
PL: Have you had mentors that helped prepare you for the program?
TM: Besides my family who have always supported and helped me along the way, I have had numerous people who have helped me achieve this. First, Trudy and Lindsay Harrison and Walter Hayden have offered countless hours of interview preparation and encouragement that has helped me make it where I am today. Also, Teresa Davis and Julie Bentley have been there to push me to strive for success and to boost me up when I need it. I am so very thankful for all these people and their tremendous and amazing help.
PL: What are your plans after graduation?
TM: Upon graduation, I will be attending the University of Alabama at Birmingham majoring in biomedical sciences and minoring in health care management to pursue a career as a physician’s assistant.
PL: What groups and/or activities are you involved in?
TM: I am actively involved in SGA, DECA, FCCLA and J-Club, where I serve as president of these organizations. I also serve as senior class president, and I am a member of the National Beta Club and Key Club. I was the 2013-2014 varsity cheer captain.
PL: What are your hobbies?
TM: I enjoy singing and playing my guitar. I also love to bake.
PL: What is your idea of a perfect weekend?
TM: My perfect weekend would consist of spending time with my family and friends, baking cupcakes and shopping with my mom.
PL: Name one place you’ve never been that you want to visit someday and why.
TM: I would love to visit Italy one day and tour all the beautiful cities and experience the amazing food.
PL: If you could try any job for a day, what would it be?
TM: I would love to be a singer on Broadway and perform in the Broadway musical “Wicked.”
PL: What is the last song you listened to?
TM: “Steady My Heart” by Kari Jobe.
PL: What are your “words to live by?”
TM: My words to live by would be to always be yourself. God made you for a specific purpose, and never let anyone tell you otherwise.
PL: What is your favorite thing about Chilton County?
TM: My favorite thing about Chilton County is the Southern hospitality that is so prevalent here. It does not matter where you go; you are always met with a smiling face and a warm heart.