Today we’d like to introduce you to Janeskha Solis. Them and their team share their story with us below:
Meeting this young lady will remind you that anything is possible! Janeskha Solis was born and raised on the south side of San Antonio. As a little girl, Janeskha dreamed of participating in beauty pageants. Growing up in a single parent household, she felt this could never be an option for her. In her early 20’s, Janeskha found herself as a single mother herself. Janeskha soon experienced some trying times and found herself unemployed and homeless. As difficult as it was for her at this time, she now wants to share her experience in hopes that her story will inspire or empower anyone who may have lost hope in their journey.
Single and distraught, it all seemed so hopeless to her at this time. Janeskha had family that she could have reached out to, but her pride kept her from doing so. After several months of living out of her car, Janeskha spiraled into a very dark place mentally. Having her daughter by her side, Janeskha realized that her little girl was counting on her. Janeskha remembered her grandfather and his courage to seek out a new life in this country. Her struggle reminded her of her grandfather’s encouraging words that he shared with her about doing things in this life, “con ganas.” She made a decision to get back on her feet and started a new job at a local insurance agency. The pay was not the best, but it was a step in the right direction. Meanwhile, she searched for a place for her and her daughter. She soon found a home with a caring roommate who she will always be grateful for. She recalls proudly telling her daughter, this is home now, “I didn’t fail you and I am not going to fail you.” The next couple of years, Janeskha worked hard to get her life in order and offer her daughter a new home of their own. Janeskha even began some work as a plus size model. One day, Janeshka stumbled across a beauty contest that caught her attention. With her friend’s encouragement, she entered the contest, never forgetting about her childhood dream to participate in a beauty contest. Janeskha competed for the title of Ms. Bexar County and won! Janeskha is the reigning queen, Ms. Bexar County, December 2020. This was one of her proudest moments yet! Janeskha recalls some of the most memorable moments came with meeting other contestants and walking away with friends for life. She remembers fondly the love and support that she received. She loves that the contestants call each other sister queens and lift each other up in an otherwise competitive environment. Because of her win, Janeskha was asked to compete in a national pageant. This pageant was held in Louisville, Kentucky in July 2021 for a chance to compete for the Miss Plus America title. She had never heard of this pageant before but thought what a wonderful concept. With the encouragement of her family, she flew to Louisville and competed for the title. Janeskha found herself as one of the top finalists for the title. She remembers how wonderful it was to represent Bexar County, San Antonio, and Texas! One of her fond memories while at the competition was representing HEB, a San Antonio based grocery store, by dressing as an HEB Partner! Janeskha decided on this costume as a tribute to our amazing HEB grocery store and their employees who were known for their dedication and hard work through the pandemic. Janeskha placed at 3rd place at the Miss Plus America, representing as Miss Texas. Winning these competitions has elevated Janeskha and her passion to a whole new level. Her wins have been humbling and reminders of her bittersweet journey. She truly cherishes this successful moment with her daughter.
It is encouraged that all contestants give back to the community which is very important to Janeskha. Janeskha has encouraged her daughter to join her on her mission of giving back to the community and never forgetting where they came from. One foundation that is dear to her is the Nicky B foundation. The Nicky B foundation was created in 2017. Janeskha fondly remembers Nicky, an amazing, fun, very popular classmate who passed away at age 23. Nicky was loved by many and Janeskha wants to help keep his memory alive. The foundation raises funds to provide local high school seniors in her community the opportunity to further their education.
Janeskha is in a wonderful place in her life right now. She feels blessed to have a positive circle of influence including her mother who she appreciates even more today. Janeskha wants to encourage all women to love themselves more. Her wins are for “the women who are too hard on themselves because of body image!” “That is all of us!” “As women, we judge ourselves too harshly, too much and forget that we are so worthy of so much more.” Her mission is to empower others with her story and through her community service.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Never a smooth road, but I always managed to find my way. Blood, sweat and tears.
My fear of not knowing how I was going to be able to feed my daughter or where we would sleep for the night was the worst feeling in the word. I don’t think you really know struggle until you really hit rock bottom.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I work at Wilford Hall at Lackland Air Force Base. That’s where you will find me helping patients, working side by side military members and their families. I’ve been blessed to be able to work with some of the toughest, hardworking & amazing men and women.
I’m best known as Miss. Texas Plus America 2020-2021. I’m known for helping my community, giving back and especially supporting the homeless community.
What sets me apart is, I’m a young, 28 years old single mom who never ever gave up, from being homeless, severely depressed to rising up, climbing my ladder and actually fulfilling my dream. And because of that, I get to give back to my community and use my success to inspire and motivate woman and girls like me.
What matters most to you? Why?
It has always been and will forever will be my daughter. She’s my purpose, my reason and my biggest accomplishment yet. Everything I’ve ever done is for her.
Contact Info:
- Email: janeskhayvette@gmail.com
- Instagram: @janeskha.s
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/janeskha.s
