"This annual event is so special to my heart," reveals Ruffin, "it is truly a labor of love.  These little women are the leaders of tomorrow.  I have an alumni of young adults today that just makes my heart so proud.  It is a special pleasure to have my celebrity friends join in this effort.  The experience is one the young ladies and their families will treasure forever!"  
 
            LMAA is a non-profit educational program designed to showcase the creative and academic talents of young girls living in urban centers throughout the country. Each year, girls between the ages of 6-12 years old participate in this program. The pageant provides an early introduction to the arts and training in public speaking, while promoting individual creativity and stimulating a heightened cultural understanding.  It is the largest scholarship pageant for African American girls of this age group.
 
            Created by Lisa Ruffin in 1993, LMAA has raised thousands of dollars towards the educational aspirations of its participants as well as their families.  Thousands of lives have been touched and changed through this program.
 
            This year, LMAA will provide prizes and scholarships to schools including Phillips Performing Arts Musical Theater for Kids, Alexia Robinson's Acting School and City of Angeles Ballet. The reigning Queen will receive a trip to Disney World in Florida.  Contestants will also have the opportunity to meet with people who have become successful in a variety of professions. 
             
            To learn more about LMAA, visit: www.littlemissafricanamerican.com .  Tickets are still available at Ticket Master and www.TicketMaster.com.