Dobreena Helm
Copa: Where are you from?
Dobreena: I'm originally from Charleston, SC, and raised in Brooklyn, NY.
Dobreena: I'm originally from Charleston, SC, and raised in Brooklyn, NY.
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Copa: What schools have you attended?
Dobreena: I attended Dyker Heights Middle School and New Utrecht High School, both in the Bensonhurst area of Brooklyn, and graduated from Pratt Institute with a BFA in 1981. Copa: What were your favorite subjects and why?
Dobreena: In middle and high school, my favorite subjects were English and Social Studies. I loved English because I'm passionate about speaking properly, and Social Studies sparked my interest in people and travel. In college, I enjoyed all subjects, particularly learning the technical and behind-the-scenes aspects of the fashion industry: Marketing, Merchandising, Textile and Non-Textiles, History of Fashion, Buying, Art, Accounting, and Literature. Copa: At what time did you become interested in competing in the world of pageantry?
Dobreena: My interest in pageantry developed recently, as I'm currently preparing for the Senior Miss Black America 2025 pageant. |
Brooklyn, New York
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Copa: How would you describe your individual style?
Dobreena: My style is vibrant, confident, and passionate, reflecting my personality and interests. I'm expressive and enjoy showcasing my individuality through my choices. |
Copa: When did you discover you had a flair for fashion and style?
Dobreena: Fashion has always come naturally to me. I've had a keen sense of style and flair for fashion throughout my life. However, my flair for fashion was evident from a young age. One of my earliest memories of expressing creativity was when I was around 4 years old, using a Pepsi Cola bottle and the corn husk from a field behind my house to create a makeshift doll. I'd wrap a string around the bottle neck and place the husk to create hair, cut out clothes from a coloring book, and tape them onto the bottle. This early display of imagination and creativity ultimately led me to pursue fashion at the Pratt Institute, where I further developed my skills and refined my style. 
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Copa: What is a favorite childhood memory?
Dobreena: Remember being proud when I learned to spell "Hoyt-Schermerhorn" (S-c-h-e-r-m-e-r-h-o-r-n) while riding the GG train to and from school. I was in the 7th grade. Copa: What activity in life are you most proud of?
Dobreena: I'm proud of discovering that I have control over my destiny and can make choices that shape my life/future. Copa: What are some hidden facts you haven't mentioned to us, or a few surprising facts?
Dobreena: You might be surprised to know that I'm a multifaceted creative: poet, painter, and meticulous cleaner!, But what brings me joy is using my skills to make a difference in my community, especially for seniors and individuals with disabilities. Copa: What are some of the happiest moments you can recall from your childhood?
Dobreena: One of my happiest moments growing up was when I discovered the importance of healthy living and made conscious decisions to prioritize my well-being. It was a turning point that empowered me to take control of my life and make choices that positively impacted my overall health. This experience not only transformed my life but also inspired me to share this journey with others, which is why I'm passionate about my Health and Wellness platform. |
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Copa: If you could change one thing in your past, what would it be?
Dobreena: Honestly, nothing!!! I'm content with my life's journey and the experiences that have shaped me into the person I am today. No regrets! 👏 I'm embracing my past, present, and future with positivity and confidence. 💪 
Copa: What words would your friends use to describe you?
Dobreena: Perhaps they'd describe me as strong-willed, confident, and/or determined. Copa: How would you like to be remembered?
Dobreena: I'd like to be remembered as someone with integrity, "doing the right thing for the right reasons and doing it at the right time." Also, my decision to donate my body to science to advance knowledge homeopathically and help others, even beyond my lifetime. My hope is that my legacy will endure through the impact I have on the lives of others and my contributions to science. 💖 |
Copa: Are you excited to compete in the upcoming Ms. Black America Pageant?
Dobreena: Yes, I'm excited to compete in the upcoming Senior Miss Black America 2026 pageant! This opportunity allows me to showcase my passion for health and wellness, inspire others, and celebrate the empowerment of women. I'm looking forward to the experience!
As a delegate for Senior Miss Black America 🇺🇸with all the twists and turns of life, I'm reminded that age is more than just a number – it's the spark in our eyes and the fire in our souls that truly matters...
Being 70 and fierce, 70 and fly, 70 and still shining bright – that's me! Age is not a limitation but a badge of honor.
www.gofundme.com/f/support-dobreenas-senior-miss-black-america-dream?attribution_id=sl%3Ae2cef4e4-95a2-4558-8cd5-efc80174cf2a&ts=1756064341717&utm_campaign=natman_sharesheet_dash&utm_content=amp14_t2&utm_medium=customer&utm_source=copy_link
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