16-year-old first African-American to win Miss Illinois Teen USA in 34-year history
by Christen A. Johnson, Chicago Tribune
Oct 09, 2017
3 minutes
Sydni Dion Bennett didn't aspire to be anyone else when she was a little girl. A 10-year-and-counting ballerina, her friends would often liken her to Misty Copeland. She didn't want to hear that. She lives by the mantra "Be yourself. Everyone else is already taken."
"It's easier," she says.
The 16-year-old, who is also a coach at dance studio Perfect Dance Artistry and Company, has the convictions and confidence of an accomplished, wise woman, which may contribute to her impeccable posture.
Bennett recently made history as the
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