Interview with Elin Jones, Ms. Super Senior USA 2024: A Journey of Grace, Empowerment, and Baton Twirling

During the whirlwind of Fashion Week, I had the immense pleasure of speaking with Elin Jones, the vibrant and inspiring Ms. Super Senior USA 2024. At 80 years young, Elin is not just a titleholder but also a world record holder—the oldest competitive baton twirler in history. Her journey is one of resilience, leadership, and a fierce commitment to empowering women, embodying the spirit of both pageantry and the fashion world.

The Path to Pageantry

Elin’s entry into the realm of pageantry was serendipitous. "An email came over my computer about a performance group," she recalled, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. Living in The Villages, Florida, she was already leading a baton twirling team of 21 senior ladies. "I raised my hand and said, ‘I have a performance group,’" she continued, sharing how this led her to an unexpected opportunity.

An encounter with a pageant director changed the course of her life. "He said, ‘You should enter,’ and I thought, ‘Oh, I can’t do that.’ But he convinced me it would be an opportunity of a lifetime." Her debut in Orlando was a transformative moment—Elin won, marking the beginning of a new chapter filled with glitz, glamour, and profound personal growth.

Celebrating Accomplishments

Elin’s pageantry journey is not just about personal accolades. Her record as the oldest competitive baton twirler, achieved after starting at the tender age of eight, speaks volumes about her dedication. "I was Ohio State champion three years in a row," she reminisced, her voice tinged with pride. "But after I turned 19, I stopped competing. It wasn't until years later that I found my passion again."

She describes the joy of mentoring her twirlers and instilling confidence in them, emphasizing the importance of humility. "People appreciate you when you’re humble. I always remind my ladies that they can do this too," she stated passionately. "Get off the couch and try something new!"

Paris Fashion Week: A Platform for Empowerment

As Ms. Super Senior USA, Elin found herself walking the runway at Paris Fashion Week—a milestone she never envisioned. "This is the epitome of what I believe," she declared. "To be here this week and put on a gorgeous gown made by someone else is incredible."

Her time in Paris was not just about showcasing fashion but conveying a powerful message to women everywhere. "I want to be a spokesperson for women over 60," Elin asserted, reflecting on the weight of her experiences. "We’ve been through wars, tragedies, marriages, and losses. We should be shouting out to the world what we’ve learned."

Elin emphasizes that beauty is not just about appearance but about achievements and experiences. "I’m here because of my accomplishments, not how I look. It makes me so proud to represent my generation," she said, her voice filled with emotion.

Inspiring the Next Generation

Elin’s message to younger women is clear: "You too can do this." Her presence at Paris Fashion Week is a beacon of hope for many. "In The Villages, there are over 3,000 clubs. It’s a community where people live independently but sometimes feel closed off from new opportunities," she explained. "I want to encourage them to step out and embrace new challenges."

She recounted her plans for returning home: "I have an interview lined up with the local newspaper. I can't wait to share my experiences and maybe inspire other women to join the baton twirling group or participate in pageantry."

A Legacy of Leadership

Elin Jones is more than a title; she is a movement. Her journey embodies resilience, leadership, and a commitment to empowering others. As we wrapped up our conversation, she reflected on her experiences with gratitude. "I didn’t feel like a queen until I got that crown. Now, I want to share this feeling with others," she said, her voice resonating with sincerity.

In a world where beauty is often narrowly defined, Elin reminds us that true beauty lies in our experiences, our ability to uplift others, and the stories we carry through life. "We are the greatest generation," she concluded. "Let’s share our wisdom and experiences, because together, we can inspire change."