Miss Inland Empire Teen USA, Julia Kim, is demonstrating that the next generation of leaders isn’t waiting for the future—they are actively building it today. As she prepares to compete for the title of Miss California Teen USA 2026, Julia stands out for her extraordinary blend of leadership, service, athleticism, creativity, and innovation.
Throughout high school, Julia consistently embraced opportunities to grow while making a lasting impact on her community.
Excelling in Action
A Heart for Service
Service is central to Julia’s leadership approach. As the Vice President of Leadership and Communications for the National Charity League, she coordinated volunteer efforts benefiting more than 33 charitable organizations. She also helped lead a profound mission trip to Mexico, working with volunteers to construct a community center for local families, reinforcing her view that leadership is about “showing up, serving others, and creating opportunities that leave communities stronger.”
Looking Forward
This fall, Julia will attend the University of Southern California (USC), majoring in International Relations Global Business. Alongside her studies, she will continue developing HOPSIGN, an innovative app she created to make civic engagement and petitioning highly accessible for the next generation.
When asked about her inspiration for competing for Miss California Teen USA, Julia grounds her drive in a single, powerful word: potential.