Chattanooga, Tenn. — More than 300 guests filled a Chattanooga Convention Center ballroom to witness Curtis Jackson Drake named as Mr. Beautillion 2023. (Beau) Drake, the son of Mr. Curtis and Dr. Marsha Drake, earned the distinguished title at “Beautillion XIII: The Making of a Gentleman” presented by the Chattanooga Chapter of The Links, Incorporated on Saturday November 11, 2023. The East Hamilton High School junior was escorted by (Belle) JaMya Talis Rogan, daughter of Dr. Jerome and Mrs. LaTasha Rogan.
The first runner-up was Mr. Benjamin Sledge, a senior at Central High School. Benjamin is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Brian Sledge. He was escorted by (Belle) Dana Hardaway.
The second runner-up was Kobe Smith, a senior at Red Bank High School. Kobe is the son of Mr. Clarence and Mrs. Hailee Young. He was escorted by (Belle) Je’Annyia Phillips.
Since its inception, the Beautillion has been considered a rite of passage event that formally presents young black men to society. Its participants include 9th through 12th grade young men – referred to as Beaux – and their escorts known as Belles. For the first time in local Beautillion history, the Chattanooga Links also presented Junior Beaux (with Belles) ranging from 3rd to 7th grades.
The winner of Mr. Junior Beautillion 2023 was Cheikh (CJ) Diakhate Jr., son of Mr. Cheikh Diakhate Sr. and Ms. Felicion McMillon. “CJ”, a 7th grader at Chattanooga Preparatory School was escorted by (Junior Belle) Zyhonna Ca’Mya Jackson, daughter of Mr. Anthony Jackson and Ms. Jerrian Hicks.
This year, eleven senior Beaux and seven junior Beaux completed a wide range of activities during which they participated in community service, cultural engagement events, self-enhancement seminars, social etiquette skills, and other fun outings along the way.
“Beautillion XIII was a stellar event that showcased an exceptional group of young men,” said Dr. Angelnetta McGee Ulmer, Chattanooga Links President. “We are confident that each of the Beaux have benefitted greatly from this experience and will continue to apply these skills in their young adult lives.”
After practicing for several months for the occasion, the Beaux and the Belles looked stunning in their tuxedoes and ball gowns and showed members of the Chattanooga community and surrounding areas all the work they put in for the formal presentation. Proceeds from the biennial fundraiser go back into the community through scholarships for students heading to college. The Chattanooga Chapter of The Links, Incorporated is grateful to the like-minded families of the participants, corporate sponsors, and a supportive community for pouring into our youth in a way that builds confidence, self-esteem, and encourages their dreams. Because of everyone’s support, Beautillion XIII: The Making of a Gentleman was a grand success.