“It’s been inspirational,” she shared. “It wasn’t something I grew up dreaming about, but it was something God placed in my path. I’m honored to step into this role and inspire women across our state — and young girls across our nation — to do the same.” And inspire she does.

Gabrelle is only the fourth Black woman in more than 90 years to be crowned Miss Louisiana. It’s a milestone that carries weight and hope.

“That means we have more to come,” she said confidently. “Although there have only been four of us, stepping into this role allows me to be a trailblazer so we can see even more women of color and African American women take it further.”

Gabrelle understands that her presence on stage sends a message far beyond the spotlight.

For Gabrelle, the defining moment of her reign didn’t come when the crown was placed on her head. It came when she flew home.

“When I stepped back on the plane to come home from Miss America, it truly set in. I would be representing such an amazing state and I was coming back to a community that has loved me since birth.”

Her journey hasn’t been without challenges. In fact, she embraces them.

Her personal initiative, “Head in the Game,” reflects the mindset that has carried her forward: braving fear, pushing past limits, and approaching life with strategy and focus.

That competitive spirit, paired with faith, has shaped her leadership.

Black History Month, she says, is about respect, recognition, and responsibility.

“It should be respected in every single household,” Gabrelle shared. “Our nation is greater each and every day because an African American took the time to say, ‘I can, I will, and I did.’”

As Miss Louisiana, she embraces the role of representation not just for young Black girls, but for every individual watching.

“If you get up and try each and every single day — you can, you will, and you did.”

She draws inspiration from powerful women who paved the way before her — her great-grandmother, who uplifted her family; Oprah Winfrey, who showed her that a voice with an accent can still command any room; and Vanessa Williams, the first African American Miss America, who persevered through adversity and kept moving forward.

Though originally from Vicksburg, Mississippi, Gabrelle proudly calls Monroe-West Monroe home. As a University of Louisiana Monroe legacy, Northeast Louisiana holds a special place in her heart.

“It is where my blood runs deep,” she said. “This is my home. I’ve lived here for over three years now, and I see it expanding each and every single day.”

What stands out most?

That sense of belonging is what makes Ouachita Parish special and it’s why she believes community support matters, especially when celebrating Black history beyond February.

“Support Black-owned businesses. Recognize the people around you. Give a hug. Give a high five. That’s how we bring each other together.”

One of her favorite local spots? Big Momma’s Fine Foods.

“You can truly feel the love in every single bite.”

If Gabrelle could leave one piece of advice for the young women chasing dreams in Northeast Louisiana, it’s simple and powerful.

“You have 24 hours in a day,” she said, echoing her father’s wisdom. “Do what you can with it. Push past what anyone has ever told you. Take on your 24 hours the way you see fit.”

In a region built on resilience, family, and faith, Gabrelle McLeod’s reign feels deeply aligned with Monroe-West Monroe’s spirit.

She isn’t just wearing a crown.

She’s carrying a legacy and creating space for many more to follow.