Coversations with The Lady Qtip D Chanel

Today we’d like to introduce you to Lawanda Miller

Hi LaWanda, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.

From a young age, I was captivated by the world of hair, makeup, and all things glamorous. Initially, I dreamed of becoming an exotic dancer, but the idea of performing naked never quite sat right with me. It was then that I discovered the vibrant and expressive world of drag, and my life was forever changed.

I developed my drag persona of Qtip without originally having any other added things. The name Qtip stands for (Qualified to Impress People) given to me by my bestfriend who passed in highschool, I got the D my drag mother being The Devine Tanisha Cassadine (RIP) and my gpop being Damoni Hall Dickerson. Chanel had always been my favorited designer so now I go by the name “The Lady Qtip D Chanel”.

My first foray into drag was with MAC Productions in Nashville, TN. The moment I stepped onto that stage, I knew I had found my calling. Inspired by legendary performers like my mother, Tanisha Cassadine—may she rest in peace—and other incredible drag artists, I realized that I, too, could shine in this dazzling art form. From that day forward, I have been entertaining audiences with passion and flair.

As a natural competitor, it wasn’t long before I ventured into the pageant scene. Watching Jasmine Bonet impersonate Janet Jackson in a pageant was a pivotal moment for me. Her performance was mesmerizing, and I knew I wanted to achieve that level of excellence. So, I took the plunge and began competing.

I have performed in many states, being able to embody the performances I give by giving a level of Drag that makes all those around me remember Qtip. My first pageant took place in South Carolina, and since then, I have participated in numerous competitions, each one pushing me to refine my craft and elevate my performances.

Often identified as a femme, I have transcended traditional boundaries to become a celebrated Drag illusionist. My journey reached a historic milestone when I became the first cisgender woman to win the prestigious national title of Ms. Black Continental, a title that boasts a rich legacy of 30 years of Black excellence.. This achievement is a testament to my dedication, resilience, and love for the art of drag.

Over the past 27 years, drag has not only been a creative outlet but also a source of empowerment and community. It has allowed me to express my true self and connect with others who share my passion for performance and glamour. As I continue to evolve and grow in this art form, I remain grateful for every opportunity to entertain and inspire.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
In the beginning, my journey in the world of pageantry was smooth. As a biologically born female, I competed in femme pageants where we were expected to look like drag queens, but I was only up against other cisgender women. We all shared the same makeup artists and designers, and our styles had the same flair. At that time, I felt that was the only lane available to me.

However, drag has evolved significantly since then. It has transcended gender and become an art form revered by everyone. My first crossover pageant was Miss US of A Unlimited in 2013. In this competition, I faced women of trans experience as well as other drag queens like myself. This pageant was the first time I was crowned in an inclusive competition. Initially, I was unaware that I would be competing with women of trans experience, but this experience prepared me to battle anyone and always be on my game.

Now, I am competing on a much larger scale, starting with Miss Glamour City in Nashville, TN. Winning that pageant against some of the greats has brought both positive and negative feedback regarding my desire to compete in inclusive pageants. I have since competed in some of the most prestigious pageants in the community including Miss North America, Miss Black America, Queen and most recently winning the title of Miss Black Continental. I deeply love and appreciate each and every one of my femme sisters, drag queens and my sisters of trans experience. If the system allows me to compete, regardless of my biological gender, as a drag illusionist, I will compete at the same level as everyone else.

Despite facing some levels of hate and online bullying, I have been told to quit, that I don’t belong, and to stay in my lane, it often bothers me. I think that often, people don’t realize the importance of not knowing where a person’s mental state is and how something as simple as an online remark or comment can cause more harm then good. However, the overwhelming support from those who believe in me pushes me to capture more titles. My goal is not only to deliver amazing drag performances and reign well but also to give back to the community. I aim to inspire those inside and outside of the community to understand that drag is not a crime and does not have a gender.

Through my journey, I hope to show that drag is an inclusive art form that celebrates diversity and creativity, and I am committed to breaking down barriers and fostering acceptance for all.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I specialize in delivering performances that make you feel like I am embodying the very essence of the artist I am portraying, whether it’s Jill Scott, Erykah Badu, or the beloved Ledisi. My ability to captivate the audience and draw them into my performance ensures that everyone feels like a part of the show, and I see each and every one of them. Known for my phenomenal lip sync skills, I promise to bring Drag, Drag, and more Drag to every stage I grace.

What sets me apart is my drive to compete against legends, believing that to be the best, you must compete against the best. I am not afraid to take constructive criticism from the Drag legends and greats to be able to surpass all expectations set before me. I take immense pride in being a pillar of my community and am committed to giving back to my gifted community, I don’t refer to them as homeless but rather gifted. We are all just one step away from needing help, so it’s crucial to support one another. A queen must reign with success but also with a generous heart.

What matters most to you? Why?
Family is the cornerstone of my life. My incredible partner and “manager” Cassidy, who stands by me through every high and low and has pushed me to embrace my platform, including this article. My kids, Shae and Dre, and my grandkids bring endless joy and pride. My entire family both biological and chosen, especially my grandmother aka. “boothang,” are my unwavering pillars of support. With out the foundation of love I have I would not be able to participate in the thing I love and that is Drag!
Beyond my family, my soul is driven by a deep passion for community service. Helping others, whether within the pageantry world or beyond, is a mission I hold dear. The Gifted community is one I never want to feel like they are forgotten. Giving back is not just a duty; it’s a privilege and a calling that I embrace wholeheartedly.
Legacy is the thread that weaves through my journey. I strive to break barriers and pave the way for my sisters and brothers, whether they are cisgender, AFAB, or of trans experience. To everyone in the LGBTQIA+ community: if you have a dream or a goal, chase it with all your might. Walk through every open door with confidence, no matter the boxes others may try to confine you to.
Remember, drag is not a crime; it is a vibrant art form of diverse expression. Let’s continue to celebrate and uplift each other, ensuring that our voices and stories are heard and cherished

Contact Info:

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/yykdemPjMgECsSUL/?mibextid=LQQJ4d

Image Credits
Photos courtesy of Kamera Vanderpump (picsbypump)

Photos courtesy of Cassidy R.