Meet Grayson!
“Turning pain into purpose isn’t just a tagline—it’s how I live. If my story can help one person, then that’s exactly what I’m here to do.”
Founder of The HOPE Project | Miss Johnston County | Advocate | Future Attorney
*
Founder of The HOPE Project | Miss Johnston County | Advocate | Future Attorney *
I’m Grayson Johnson—a Johnston County native, a proud little sister, and the founder of The HOPE Project. I started this initiative not just to honor my big sister Kinsley’s life, but to use my voice and platform to change the way we talk about addiction, loss, and healing.
Kinsley battled addiction for over 15 years. In June 2024, she lost that battle—but her story didn’t end there. I made a promise to turn the pain of losing her into purpose. The HOPE Project is that promise in action—created to fight the heroin, opioid, and pill epidemic by pairing HOPE with help.
Through honest storytelling, school visits, community partnerships, and statewide advocacy, I’m working to break the stigma around addiction and remind people that no one has to fight this battle alone.
Education & Advocacy
I’m a graduate of North Carolina State University, where I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Communication with a concentration in Public Relations—in just two years. This fall, I’ll begin law school at Campbell University, with plans to return home and open my own practice—serving the very community that raised me.
As a first-generation college and law student, I’ve learned firsthand what it means to overcome, to grow, and to create your own opportunity—even when life doesn’t go according to plan.
Miss America Opportunity
As Miss Johnston County, I wear a crown—but not because my story is perfect. I wear it because I’m willing to share it. The Miss America Opportunity has given me the tools, the stage, and the strength to turn my life experience into leadership.
Through this organization, I’ve found my brand, my purpose, and my voice. I’ve had the honor of speaking to hundreds of students, partnering with recovery groups, launching the Voices of HOPE podcast, and sitting down with decision-makers to advocate for change. This opportunity has transformed my heartbreak into impact—and I’m just getting started.
Why I Do This
I do this work for Kinsley.
I do it for the families who’ve lost someone.
For the students who don’t know how dangerous just one pill can be.
For every person who thinks they’re alone in the fight.
I’ve seen what silence can do.
Now I want the world to see what HOPE can do instead.