By Allison Peck
North Platte is celebrating one of its own as Gabriella “Gabby” Swift takes the title of Miss Nebraska's Teen and represents the state on the national stage. Gabby, a hometown girl through and through, recently competed at the national competition in Orlando, Florida, where she showcased her talent, passion, and dedication to community service.
Growing up in North Platte, Gabby was no stranger to the pageant world. Her grandfather, a longtime supporter of the Miss Nebraska program, often provided cars to winners, and Gabby spent much of her youth behind the scenes at the pageants. “We’ve hosted girls, done all the things behind the scenes, and then I finally, my senior year of high school, decided to try it out,” Gabby shared. “Now I’m here, and it’s just been amazing, especially being in my hometown.”
When asked about her favorite thing about North Platte, Gabby didn’t hesitate. “I would just say the community and the people,” she said. “I’ve had so much support—more than I even thought I would get—and it’s so surreal and amazing seeing people come together in support of me and my dreams and goals.”
Family and community play a big role in Gabby’s life. She fondly remembers Lake Maloney Golf Course, a spot tied to family memories and local traditions, including the Bob Spady Memorial Golf Tournament. “We’re kind of a golf family, so that course brings a lot of memories for us,” she said.
Outside of pageantry, Gabby enjoys a variety of activities, from Pilates and working out to spending time with friends and family. “I’m kind of a person who just loves different adventures,” she said. “A movie night, a car ride—whatever comes my way, I’m down for it.”
Gabby’s pageant journey began with a desire to honor her late grandfather’s legacy and evolved into a deep passion for advocacy. Her platform focuses on supporting eating disorder recovery, a cause close to her heart. “I was a gymnast my whole life, and as my body changed going through puberty, I struggled with food and self-image,” Gabby explained. “I want teens to know they’re more than their reflection. You’re not broken—you’re becoming.”
Through her advocacy, Gabby works with Nebraska senators to bring legislation supporting insurance coverage for eating disorder treatment to the next session. She also engages with students through programs like the “magic mirror” activity, where young children write positive affirmations about themselves on sticky notes to display on a mirror in their classroom.
Reflecting on her time at nationals, Gabby described it as an unforgettable experience. “Being on that stage with 51 other amazing girls was incredible,” she said. “Words can’t even describe it.” Her talent, a high-energy tumbling routine set to Let’s Get Loud, showcased her gymnastics background and set her apart from other contestants.
Gabby balances her role as Miss Nebraska Outstanding Teen with her studies as a freshman at the University of Nebraska, where she’s pursuing a pre-health major and is active in her sorority. “I’ve really learned how to balance a lot of things,” she said. “This experience is helping me develop skills I know will help me later in life."
Looking ahead, Gabby plans to continue her advocacy, visiting schools across Nebraska, meeting with legislators, and inspiring other teens. She also looks forward to crowning her successor next June, a milestone she describes as both emotional and exciting.
For young people considering entering pageants, Gabby offers encouraging advice: “It might sound cliché, but truly just go for it. Have confidence in yourself and believe you can. Entering this organization will change your life in the best way possible.”
Gabby’s journey demonstrates the impact one teen can have through passion, advocacy, and dedication. North Platte is proud to call Gabriella Swift one of its own and looks forward to seeing all she accomplishes in the year ahead.