DIRECTORS

DIRECTOR

Candice Cruz is an accomplished television host, media producer, actress, writer, and creative talent developer whose multifaceted career blends entertainment, journalism, and storytelling with confidence and charisma. She is best known as the host and producer of The Hollywood Drop on The Digital Podcast Network, where she delivers timely entertainment news, pop culture commentary, and industry insights to a wide audience.

Originally from Kentucky, Candice’s passion for performance and media began at an early age. Her journey in front of audiences started well before her professional career — she began competing in pageants around age 18, a period that she credits with building her stage presence, communication skills, and confidence on camera. Notably, she won the title of Miss Teen United States in 2010 in Las Vegas, a national crown that helped sharpen her interviewing abilities and public engagement skills at a young age. During her reign, she worked with organizations such as the Ronald McDonald House and the University of Kentucky Children’s Hospital, promoting her platform focused on self-esteem and real beauty. 

While attending the University of Kentucky, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in broadcast journalism, Candice continued her involvement in pageantry and even competed in the Miss Kentucky Pageant in 2013, gaining further experience that would serve her future media career. 

Candice’s professional media journey includes hosting roles on respected entertainment platforms such as AfterBuzz TV, Black Hollywood Live, Popcorn Talk, and Buzz 360, where she conducted celebrity interviews and covered major industry events including red carpet awards shows and television upfronts. Her hosting work sharpened her voice as a trusted entertainment commentator and on-air personality. 

Beyond hosting, she is also a producer and content creator, with credits in projects such as Always, Lola (2022) and Mantra (2022), demonstrating her range as both a storyteller and performer. Additionally, she co-hosts the popular Bossy Bonitas podcast, blending culture, lifestyle, and candid conversation. 

Known for her relentless work ethic, adaptability, and genuine connection with audiences, Candice continues to expand her influence across digital and traditional media platforms while mentoring the next generation of talent.



ASSISTANT DIRECTOR

MeKayla “Kay” Brittany is a California native, commercial and beauty model, and accomplished pageant titleholder featured in national retail campaigns, with work carried in stores such as Target and Walmart. After entering pageantry in 2022, she found her home within the Miss Grand USA family, where she was welcomed with open arms and began a journey marked by growth, leadership, and purpose.