Miss New York Teen Volunteer

Congratulations to our 2027 Miss New York volunteer Teen Mia Gajewski. We want to thank our 2026 Miss New York volunteer Teen Ellie (Eliza) Leszczynski for her year of service. Don’t blink, you’ll see her again. Follow Mia as she starts to prepare for the nation completion in Jackson, Tennessee in March.

I don’t know how to say goodbye to a year that meant so much to me.

When I first became Miss New York Teen Volunteer, I knew I wanted to make the most of the opportunity I had been given. I wanted to serve, meet new people, try new things, and use my platform for something that genuinely mattered to me.

Through Fight for Sight, I was able to share a part of my family’s story and turn it into something bigger. From collecting glasses and raising money for vision care, to creating a coloring book and simply starting conversations about the importance of eye health, I am so grateful for every person who helped me make this initiative what it became.

But this year was about so much more than my platform. It was the people I met, the places I got to go, the memories I made, and the ways I grew along the way. Looking back, I know I will remember the little moments just as much as the big ones.

Shannon, thank you for making this year what it was. I am so grateful for your kindness, your support, and for every moment I got to experience with you. I couldn’t have asked for a better person to share this year with!

To my family, thank you for being behind me through every part of this journey. For every early morning, long drive, event, and idea you supported, thank you for always believing in me.

And to everyone who supported me throughout this year, thank you.

To the next Miss New York Teen Volunteer, enjoy it. Be yourself, find what matters to you, and make this year your own.

I may be handing over the crown, but the lessons, friendships, and memories from this year will stay with me long after the crown is gone.

Thank you for an unforgettable year! Until next time!

Forever your Miss New York Teen Volunteer 2026, Eliza Leszczynski! 🩷🩷

One last interview! 🤍

Thank you, New York, for trusting me with this title and giving me a year I’ll never forget. I’m forever grateful for every opportunity, memory, and person this year brought into my life. So thankful I got to call myself your Miss New York Teen Volunteer!🥹🩷