Many of the contestants in the Miss Mississippi pageant have unique qualities that make them stand out above the rest of the competition.

For Miss Southern Magnolia, Briana Exum, her hairstyle might bring her attention, but she is more than happy to share the reason behind it.

While the rest of the pageant contestants have long, flowing hair, Exum’s baldhead stands alone, but the reason she shaved her head is tremendously personal.

Exum shaved her head in 2012 when her mother, Bridgette, was diagnosed with breast cancer. Her mother has since won her battle with cancer, but that hasn’t stopped Exum from keeping the look.

“It was a symbol that we were in this together,” Exum said. “I remain bald because I really enjoy being a visible example of how beauty is in your actions.”

Exum is a student at William Carey University, where she is studying finance and speech communication. Originally from Colorado Springs, Colo., Exum moved to Hattiesburg two years ago, where most of her family is from. While in Colorado, she was listed as one of the top 15 orators in the nation in 2012 and won the Colorado state original oratory award also in 2012.

Ever since her decision to shave her head, Exum has been proud of her decision to keep the hairstyle and is happy to be an example of beauty.

“The maintenance is very low,” Exum said with a laugh. “Every time I look in the mirror, I appreciate why I did it. It really just makes me happy.”

Exum sees her decision to go bald more as an advantage for her because it brought out her true beauty and it’s something she hopes she can relay to the people.

Seeing her mother happy is what meant the most to Exum.

“She’s just been so supportive of me,” Exum said. “We’ve been one this entire time, and we’re getting stronger and stronger and the fact that I still keep it bald as long as she’s fighting through cancer; it’s a real show of love and she really appreciates that.”

Exum won her local pageant in Hattiesburg and kept on building her local platform, “Finding Your Voice.” The process for Exum has been memorable for her so far.

“It’s been a lot of work and a lot of preparation, but the good type of work,” Exum said. “It’s purposeful work and it’s just been really exciting to be here.”