At just 19 years old, Athena Stratis is redefining what it means to wear a crown. Hailing from the Ocean State of Rhode Island, Athena isn’t your typical titleholder-she’s a radiant blend of humility, heart, and hustle, rooted deeply in community, family, and purpose.
Raised in a close-knit town surrounded by nature, Athena learned early on that real beauty begins within. “Being outdoors taught me to slow down and appreciate not just the world around me, but the light we all carry inside,” she shares. Her upbringing in a family-owned pizza shop-serving smiles, slices, and stories for over fifty years-was where her passion for service was born. It was also where she was most inspired by her late grandfather, affectionately known as Mr. Fantastic. “He showed me how to lead with love, treat people with dignity, and always, always serve with joy.”
To honor his legacy, Athena founded Athena’s Angels, a platform dedicated to empowering others through acts of kindness and self-discovery. From organizing handwritten letter drives for seniors through Operation Famtastic, to launching Double Take Tuesday, a self-care initiative that encourages women to pause and love themselves more intentionally, Athena has made it her mission to spark transformation-both inside and out.
In 2024, her efforts were nationally recognized when she received the Gold Presidential Service Award. But for Athena, the accolades are secondary. “Giving back isn’t optional. It’s essential,” she says.
A quote that drives her forward is one she lives by:
“If you hang out with me for too long, I’ll brainwash you into believing in yourself and knowing you
can achieve anything.”
That fierce belief in others is the heartbeat of Athena’s journey. Her rise to the Queen of the World crown wasn’t built on pageantry alone, but on passion, persistence, and an unshakable belief that dreams are meant to be chased.
Now, as Queen of the World 2025, Athena sees the crown not as a prize, but a purpose. “It’s a responsibility-to shine a light on others, to listen deeply, and to remind every person that they are seen, valued, and capable of greatness.”
She’s currently working on her first children’s book, inspired by the very message she champions: that kindness, confidence, and compassion can change the world. It’s a message she carries with her whether she’s speaking at schools, volunteering, or simply sharing a heartfelt smile.
Outside of service and spotlight, Athena finds her joy in the everyday-laughing with her family over Sunday dinners, reconnecting with her faith, or embracing adventure and stillness in equal measure. “I believe in balance,” she says. “There’s room for both hustle and healing, ambition and peace.”
Through every act, Athena proves that true royalty isn’t about a title-it’s about the heart behind the crown.
