Karlie Hay Gives Miss Teen USA 2017 Hopefuls Advice (Exclusive)

Karlie Hay hosts a workout with a few Miss Teen USA contestants at South Mountain Park on Thursday (July 27) in Phoenix, Ariz.

JJJ recently chatted with the reigning Miss Teen USA about what she learned during her reign, and any advice she’d give the next queen.

“During my reign as Miss Teen USA, I’ve learned how to truly believe in myself,” Karlie told us. “Throughout the year, I have realized that I have something inside of me that is greater than any obstacle.”

Karlie‘s platform was drug and alcohol abuse, however, she didn’t get to campaign for it as much as she would have liked to.

“I would have loved to raise more awareness as well as speak more on the effects of alcohol and drug abuse, though I’m happy I got to shed a little light on the subject at a few events,” she says. “I plan to continue advocating for teens growing up in unstable homes.”

The next Miss Teen USA will have to fill some pretty big shoes — so what’s the one piece of advice she’d give to her?

“Make every moment count!” Karlie says. “Use your title and platform to impact your community and those around you.”

Miss Teen USA 2017 will be webcast TOMORROW on Facebook and MissTeenUSA.com.