The Upstander Revolution w/ Charlee Sorenson

Charlee Sorenson is not only a volunTEEN, but also a volunQUEEN as the current Miss Utah's Outstanding Teen! Charlee loves singing, Cheesecake Factory, and making people smile. On top of that, she has the amazing ability to spread her platform: "The Upstander Revolution- Stand Up and Make a Difference" on a state and national scale.

There is so much meaning behind the Upstander Revolution and why she chose it. She noticed the desperate need for Upstanders within her school and community and wanted to make that change! Her message is incredibly strong, as she wants everyone to know they can be the difference in everyday social situations. It is all about finding your own personal power and using it for good. "I was bullied in middle school which led to a period of time when I refused to eat. I had been made a victim and was allowing myself to wallow in it. I had to stand up for myself. I had to find my own personal power and once I did, it changed my life. I knew that I had to encourage others to understand how powerful they are. And when you understand your power, you can stand up for yourself and others. And with that, you can create positive change wherever you see the need. Bystanders are part of the problem, and Upstanders are the solution!"

Charlee has always been inspired to serve thanks to the Miss America Organization and all of its beautiful and intelligent role models, who all stand up for what they believe in. "I knew that it started with me and what I could do to better my small community and through the opportunity I’ve been given as Miss Utah’s Outstanding Teen, I am serving this great state!"

Charlee has accomplished so much with her platform, even before earning the title of MUOT. Here's one of her favorite projects she's been a part of: "Before I was crowned MUOT, I had the opportunity to get with my sister queens and put together care packages for school counselors to give to kids who come in seeking help. We had so much fun writing letters of hope and putting in things that will lift their spirits! Chick-Fil-A even donated cards for free milkshakes and mini cows!" Sounds like one fun (and yummy) service idea!

Charlee was also very proud of her opportunity to speak to an entire drill team about team unity and being an Upstander for each of their teammates. It was an inspiring, emotional experience, as she was able to encourage each member to be the best possible teammates for each other.

Charlee's role model is her momma. "My momma has always been my greatest role model. She inspires me everyday to be the best possible version of myself. Without her, I wouldn’t be who I am. If I can have a fraction of her generosity and sincere love for everyone, that would be enough!"

Recently, Charlee was able to accomplish a far reaching project. She, and many other sister queens, took treats to local police officers to discuss recent issues with them. "If we can seek to communicate and understand, we can better our efforts to make EVERYONE feel safe!"

Charlee is an exceptional role model and has one great piece of advice for all of you: "Life is too short not to find what sets your heart on fire and chase after that relentlessly. Why else are we here if not to make our own unique mark? Oh and, wear sunscreen!"

Be sure to follow her journey on Instagram (@maoteenut)!!