Layla Rose Castillo
Young Miss of America
Layla Rose is an accomplished 11-year-old sixth grader from Grayson, California. Bilingual in English and Spanish, Layla has embraced opportunities to grow as a student, athlete, leader, and advocate within her community.
Layla began her pageantry journey at just three years old and quickly developed a genuine love for the experiences, friendships, and opportunities to make a positive difference. Layla Rose was thrilled and deeply honored to be crowned 2026 Young Miss of America and represent a program whose values strongly aligned with her own. During the national competition, she was also recognized with the Personality Award, Community Service Scrapbook Winner, Community Engagement Award, and Presidential Service Gold Award—honors that reflect her dedication to serving others and making a meaningful impact.
Community service is especially important to Layla. During her state reign, she created “6 Causes in 6 Months,” bringing awareness and support to six causes close to her heart: Autism, Animal Shelters, Special Olympics, Mental Health Awareness for Active-Duty Military Members and Veterans, Alzheimer’s Awareness, and Homelessness. Through these initiatives, Layla developed meaningful partnerships with organizations and community members and helped raise more than $100,000 collectively in support of these causes.
Outside of pageantry and community service, Layla is a dedicated athlete and student. She is a national-level competitive cheerleading champion and spends countless hours developing her skills in cheerleading and tumbling. She can also be found on the football field, where she proudly serves as the starting Middle Linebacker and Captain of her co-ed tackle football team. At school, Layla plays flute in the orchestra and participates in Science Olympiad. She is also a Rebel Ambassador, taking a stand against bullying and encouraging kindness, acceptance, and inclusion for everyone.
Layla hopes to use her title as a platform to encourage other young people to believe in themselves, serve their communities, embrace their differences, and never be afraid to pursue their dreams.