Meet Miss Fall River, Deolinda “Dolly” Mendes: Champion for the Next Generation

This weekend, Miss Fall River Deolinda “Dolly” Mendes will take the Miss Massachusetts stage, bringing with her a heart full of purpose, a platform rooted in community, and a story that continues to inspire those around her. With her Community Service Initiative, Next-Gen Navigators, Dolly is creating meaningful change in her city and beyond.

Next-Gen Navigators is more than just a project. It's a reflection of Dolly’s own experiences growing up and her desire to provide young people with what she needed most: a consistent role model, someone who looked like her, and a reminder that their futures are bigger than their circumstances. Through mentorship, mental health support, and educational resources, Dolly is helping young people in underserved communities believe in their potential.

As Miss Fall River, Dolly has worked closely with students, educators, and families. These moments, she says, have been among the most meaningful of her reign. Her goal as Miss Massachusetts is to expand Next-Gen Navigators into more schools across the state, creating spaces where young people feel seen, supported, and inspired to dream big. This mission is deeply personal. Dolly knows the power of being told that you matter, and she is committed to being that voice for the next generation.

“Competing in Miss America has been one of the most transformative experiences of my life,” she shares. “It’s taught me how to turn my story into purpose and how to use my voice in ways that create real impact.”

Another highlight of her journey has been the sisterhood she’s found within the Miss America Organization. Dolly speaks with gratitude about the strong, passionate, and supportive women she’s met along the way. This year is particularly special, as she gets to share the stage with her best friend Megan. “We’ve been each other’s biggest cheerleaders,” Dolly says. “It’s reminded me that this organization is about more than a crown. It’s about community, connection, and showing up for one another.”

As she heads into competition weekend, Dolly reflects on all the growth that has come with preparation. From mentoring fifth-grade girls to leading school activities and organizing donation drives, she has been living out her initiative in a powerful, hands-on way. She has also prioritized wellness, committing to her fitness journey with the same heart and determination she brings to everything she does. As a Hotworx ambassador, Dolly promotes self-care, consistency, and strength, both physical and mental.

“The late-night laughs, the backstage hype sessions, the deep conversations, those are the moments that stick with you,” she says. “This experience is about the journey, the growth, and the amazing people you share it with. I’m so grateful to be part of it.”

Join us in cheering on Miss Fall River this weekend as she competes for the title of Miss Massachusetts 2025. You can catch all the action at The Hanover Theatre in Worcester.

🎟️ Preliminary Competition Tickets – June 20

🎟️ Finals – June 21

Follow Dolly’s journey and get inspired by her passion for service, her dedication to wellness, and her unwavering belief in the power of mentorship. She’s not just competing. She’s leading with heart and purpose every step of the way.