This October, for our series highlighting former foster youth, we’re talking with Ariana Rodriguez, Miss Kentucky and an incredible advocate for foster youth. 

Ariana grew up bouncing between kinship placements and foster homes. After aging out of the system, she even experienced homelessness, living out of her car. Looking for ways to pay for college, she entered the pageant world, and everything changed. She became the first former foster youth to win the title of Miss Kentucky and went on to place in the Top 11 at Miss America. 

Now, Ariana uses her platform to lift up other foster youth. She hosts The Lucky Ones podcast, where she shares stories from foster alumni and highlights the challenges of the foster care system. She also started The Lucky Ones nonprofit to provide resources and support for foster youth, helping them thrive and feel seen. 

Tune in to hear Ariana’s story of resilience, hope, and how she’s making a difference for the next generation of foster youth. 

Episode Highlights:  

• Meet Ariana Rodriguez  
• Miss Kentucky  
• Former Foster Youth  
• The Lucky Ones Podcast & Non-Profit  
• Advocating for FFY  

Find more on Guest: 

• The Lucky One | Miss Kentucky 2025 Ariana Rodriguez 
• The Lucky One Non-Profit 
• Find Ariana on Instagram   
• Find Ariana on Facebook 
• The Lucky Ones Podcast  

Find More on Hope Bridge: 

• Elev8:28 Support Group 
• Visit Our Website  
• Follow us on Instagram 
• Follow us on Facebook  
• Foster Our Community Instagram