Meet Hannah
The Full Story
Drawing inspiration from her own journey as a student who struggled in school, Hannah Faith Michaels has dedicated herself to creating pathways of mentorship, inclusion, and opportunity for young women across Florida and beyond. Her commitment began after discovering her undiagnosed ADHD in high school and realizing just how transformative mentorship and scholarships were in helping her find her footing. Out of that experience, she founded Be The One Mentoring, a nonprofit that has grown into a statewide movement through its signature program, W.I.S.E. (Women Investing in Successful Education).
As a mentor and dance teacher, she has seen firsthand how many students feel overlooked and underserved in schools where mentorship programs are needed most. Through Be The One, Hannah has led empowerment summits, partnered with schools and organizations, expanded into Best Buddies of South Florida, and advocated for mentorship on Capitol Hill as an essential educational resource. Her leadership has already reached thousands of young people and inspired a culture of inclusion and service.
Her creativity and passion extend beyond mentorship. With 18 years of training in dance, Hannah has performed, choreographed, and taught across Florida, instilling confidence in the next generation. She also carries her voice onto the page as the author of The Sky is Not the Limit and the upcoming children’s book Dancers Don’t Talk, both designed to spark early conversations about confidence, empowerment, and finding one’s voice.
At just 11 years old, Hannah became the youngest winner in the history of the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts Design Competition, an achievement that foreshadowed her pursuit of a double major in Fashion Merchandising and Political Science at St. Thomas University, where she is also a middle blocker for the NAIA Women’s Volleyball Team. She has since modeled for nationally recognized designers and continues to merge artistry with purpose through fashion, writing, and service.
As a three-time local titleholder — Miss Fort Lauderdale 2023, Miss South Florida Fair 2024, and Miss South Florida 2025 — Hannah has completed over 150 appearances and more than 5,000 hours of service, receiving recognition as a two-time Presidential Achievement Award recipient, a Student Athlete Scholarship recipient, and an Equity and Justice Scholarship honoree.
Her story is proof that with mentorship, opportunity, and determination, barriers can be broken. Today, she remains committed to showing up for others — ensuring every girl has a champion who believes in her first.
Advocate
From Capitol Hill to classrooms across Florida, I use my voice to champion mentorship, inclusion, and equal access to opportunity. With over 5,000 hours of community service and 150+ appearances as a local titleholder, I’ve seen the power of showing up — and I’m committed to inspiring others to do the same.
Fashion Creative
Fashion has always been my outlet for expression and innovation. At just 11 years old, I became the youngest winner in the history of the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts Design Competition, a milestone that set the stage for my future in the industry. Today, as a double major in Fashion Merchandising and Political Science, I merge creativity with purpose — whether designing, modeling, or curating style that tells a story and sparks confidence.
Non-Profit Founder
I founded Be The One Mentoring to ensure that no girl feels left behind simply because she learns differently or lacks resources. Through our W.I.S.E. program (Women Investing in Successful Education), we connect girls with mentors, scholarships, and leadership opportunities, creating a movement for inclusion and empowerment.
Athlete
As a middle blocker for St. Thomas University’s NAIA volleyball team and a lifelong dancer of 18 years, I’ve learned discipline, teamwork, and resilience through athletics. From the court to the studio, sports and performance have shaped my confidence and my drive to lead by example.
Hannah's Collaborations
