RAQUEL RILEY THOMAS CROWNED ELITE MRS. NIGERIA, QUEEN OF THE WORLD 2025

Library of Congress Honoree, Decorated Veteran, and Entrepreneur Advocates for Empowerment and Safety

Washington, D.C. (January 28, 2025) – Global media and entertainment powerhouse, An Officer and Gentlewoman, LLC proudly announces that its Founder and CEO, Raquel Riley Thomas, has been crowned Elite Mrs. Nigeria, Queen of the World 2025. This historic milestone adds yet another accolade to the distinguished career of a trailblazing entrepreneur, decorated U.S. Army Veteran, and humanitarian.

Raquel Riley Thomas’s journey exemplifies perseverance, excellence, and service. As a decorated U.S. Army Veteran, Raquel served as a photojournalist (5yrs) and Ordnance Captain (4yrs), earning numerous military honors, including the U.S. Army Commendation Medal (2x) and the U.S. Army Achievement Medal (3x). Recognized for her contributions to military service, Thomas was inducted into the Library of Congress, a testament to her lasting legacy and impact.

A Career of Leadership and Innovation

From the battlefield to the boardroom, the Hampton University graduate has built a career marked by groundbreaking achievements.

In 2011, Raquel founded An Officer and Gentlewoman, LLC (AOAGWLLC), a global media and entertainment company with a current portfolio valuation of $1.9 billion. The company specializes in public relations, talent management, brand management and production, winning over 75 industry awards and producing events at esteemed venues like the Kennedy Center.

As a passionate entrepreneur, Raquel also launched Raquel Riley Thomas Beauty Line (RRT Beauty) in 2020, offering performance-based, long-wear makeup for professionals and beauty enthusiasts.

Empowered Defense: Strength, Safety, and Self-Worth

As part of her reign, Raquel is championing her new platform, "Empowered Defense: Strength, Safety, and Self-Worth." This initiative is dedicated to equipping girls and women of all ages with the tools to protect themselves, both physically and mentally. A strong believer in the importance of self-defense, Thomas is an active practitioner of Taekwondo and Tao meditation underscoring her commitment to leading by example.

“My mission is to help every girl and woman feel strong, safe, and capable,” said Thomas. “Self-defense is not just about physical safety—it’s about building confidence, discipline, and affirming self-worth.”

Commitment to Service

Raquel, a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc, is committed to community service. Raquel is a staunch advocate for Veterans, and she serves on the Advisory Board of Operation Renewed Hope Foundation. Putting her media background to use, Raquel is the Publicist for the Southeast Emmys. She is also a champion for mental health awareness, supporting the American Federation for Suicide Prevention, a cause deeply personal to her after the loss of her mother in March 2013. She is the recipient of the President’s Volunteer Service Award (Lifetime Achievement).

 A Devoted Family Life

Raquel Riley Thomas, originally from Maryland, lives in Georgia with her husband, West Point graduate Ron Thomas, Esq. Married since 2006, they have four daughters: two are their own, including a college student studying aerospace engineering and a celebrity teen chef, while Ron’s two adult daughters are college graduates.

 A Visionary Leader

As Elite Mrs. Nigeria, Queen of the World 2025, Raquel will promote her platform “Empowered Defense: Strength, Safety, and Self-Worth”, on a global scale. Her reign will include appearances, speeches, and community engagements that inspire and uplift individuals worldwide. Raquel will vie for the title of Elite Mrs. Queen of the World in May 2025.

Stay Connected with Raquel

Follow Raquel Riley Thomas as she embarks on this exciting new chapter:

Instagram: @raquelrileythomas

Instagram: @rrtbeauty

For interviews, appearances, and pageant sponsorships, please contact L. Nelson at pr@aoagwllc.com.

Atlanta Fashion & Polo Classic 2024: A Spectacular Fusion of Style, Elegance, and Philanthropy

Atlanta, GA – An Officer and Gentlewoman, LLC (AOAGWLLC), a Veteran-owned media and entertainment company renowned for its white-glove service in public relations, named the official Public Relations partner for the 2024 Atlanta Fashion and Polo Classic. The prestigious event, hosted by Miguel and Chancey Wilson, took place on October 13, 2024.

 The Atlanta Fashion and Polo Classic, sponsored by Bentley, Remy Martin, and Tito’s Vodka, began its seventh year in highlighting fashion, cuisine, and philanthropy with the national flag raised at Georgia’s Capitol. Over 2,800 attendees were brought together, including notable figures from various industries, while emphasizing the richness of Black culture. Together, they were raising vital funds for the Ride to the Olympics Foundation, helping young athletes reach their dreams on the world stage.

Friday night’s “Miguel Celebrity Fight Night” was preceded by a weigh-in and press conference on Thursday. While formally dining, attendees enjoyed six thrilling bouts, performances, auctions, and stellar hosting by Ryan Cameron, the Voice of Atlanta, and actor, Palmer Williams, Jr. “Cocktails and Cigars Under the Stars” featured a fashion show with models strutting a runway that flowed indoors and outdoors displaying various designers like JoJo Atelier. The Granville Group and Dr. John C. Lipman sponsored the Junior Polo teams.

The weekend culminated with debonair outfits and vibrant celebration, adding a sophisticated touch to the event. Guests sought pleasure in a history-making face off of the Atlanta Jr. and Maryland Jr. Polo Teams. The evening concluded with a fashion show to honor beauty pageant queens advocating for mental health and confidence, alongside elegant bridal gowns from Hanan’s Bridal, offering a dynamic mix of fashion and advocacy. A live performance by Q Parker enhanced the festive atmosphere. Among the notable celebrities present were: Nene Leakes, Peter Thomas, Mia Thornton, Martell Holt, Mike Jackson, Jaime Tyler, Reyna Love, Guy Lambert, Lil’ Zane, Kenny Burke, Jessica Lewis, Red Grant, Leticia and Rod Gardner, Lana Rae, Carmen Felder, Corinna Delgado, Lana Rae, Shabazz, Pastor Jamal Bryant, Dr. Karri Turner, Pastor Troy, and many more.

“The intersection of elegance and sport, showcased not just fashion but a vibrant community that shares a passion for style, cultural expansion, equestrian excellence, and uplifting our youth,” said Chancey Wilson, Co-Producer of the event. Miguel Wilson added, "The Atlanta Fashion and Polo Classic thrives on the incredible support of our sponsors and attendees, who share our vision of elevating equestrian sports while making a meaningful impact.”

For more information on the 2024 Atlanta Fashion and Polo Classic, please contact pr@aoagwllc.com

Notes: Photos by Phil Jackson

For Immediate Release: Newly Crowned Miss DC USA and Teen 2023. Will Represent DC in National Miss USA and Miss Teen USA.

4/16/2023 The District of Columbia has two new Queens!

Cassie Baloue was crowned Miss District of Columbia USA 2023, and Asia Chisley was crowned Miss District of Columbia Teen USA on Saturday, April 15, 2023, at the Lincoln Theater, in Washington DC. The pageant was produced by Brains and Beauties, LLC. 

Cassie Baloue, Miss District of Columbia USA 2023, will represent the District at the upcoming Miss USA 2023.

Asia Chisley, Miss District of Columbia Teen USA 2023 will represent the District in the upcoming Miss Teen USA 2023.

For interviews, please contact L. Nelson at pr@aoagwllc.com. Thank you.

Asia Chisley was crowned Miss District of Columbia Teen USA 2023

Cassie Baloue was crowned Miss District of Columbia USA 2023