New York Celebrates First-Ever Ms. Wheelchair America Titleholder

History was made this past weekend as Latavia Sturdivant, Ms. Wheelchair New York, claimed the prestigious title of Ms. Wheelchair America 2026. Her victory marks the first time a New Yorker has won the national crown, a milestone achievement for both Latavia and the state’s disability advocacy community.

The crowning took place during a gala in Grand Rapids, Michigan, where 18 state titleholders gathered for a week of competition, advocacy workshops, and events. Watch highlights from the crowning gala here.

Diagnosed with cerebral palsy at just 12 months old, Latavia has dedicated her life to advocating for people with disabilities. Her platform, “Breaking Barriers in Education and Leadership,” addresses systemic challenges that limit access to quality education and leadership opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

In her heartfelt acceptance speech, Latavia expressed deep gratitude to her supporters and fellow contestants:

“I have a huge sisterhood behind me. Girls, you are amazing and I promise, I promise, I promise that I will do this crown justice and I will fight for every one of your platforms and be there for every one of you. This crown isn’t just for me—it’s for all of us.”

Latavia’s professional accomplishments reflect her passion for advocacy. She is a speech-language pathologist, adjunct professor at Lehman College, and host of the ‘Queens On A Roll’ podcast, which highlights stories of women with disabilities. She earned her Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Columbia University.

The mission of Ms. Wheelchair America is to provide a public platform for women who use wheelchairs to successfully educate and advocate for the more than 70 million Americans living with disabilities.

“For over 50 years, Ms. Wheelchair America has been a powerful platform for women with disabilities to share their voices and drive meaningful change,” said Mary Zendejas, President of Ms. Wheelchair America. “These remarkable women aren't just competing; they're demonstrating that disability doesn't define limits, advocacy does. We're excited to return to Grand Rapids to celebrate their achievements and amplify their missions.”

Throughout the week, state titleholders participated in leadership training, advocacy workshops, mentoring events, and judging sessions. While contestants arrive with their own platforms, many leave with lifelong friendships, forming a sisterhood built on shared experiences and collaboration.

For the fourth year in a row, Mary Free Bed Guild served as presenting sponsor of the event. Since 1891, the women of the guild have been devoted to improving quality of life for people with disabilities.

“We are so proud to once again collaborate with Ms. Wheelchair America and partner for this year's event,” said Mary Beth Brown, co-president of the Mary Free Bed Guild. “Each competitor brings such strength and resilience to this competition as well as a desire to create meaningful change in their communities.”

The public was invited to attend Speech Night on Friday and Saturday night’s crowning gala, both held at the Amway’s Ambassador Ballroom. These events, featuring personal stories and powerful advocacy speeches, were also livestreamed on the Mary Free Bed Facebook page.

“This event is so much more than a competition,” said Guild co-president Maureen Kozel. “It’s an opportunity to elevate voices, share impactful stories, and advocate for people with disabilities across the country.”

As Ms. Wheelchair America 2026, Latavia will now take her mission nationwide—continuing to break barriers, inspire change, and champion inclusion for people with disabilities everywhere.