Making a Difference: Carrington Manous, Miss Georgia Teen 2024

Crowned in June 2024 as Miss Georgia’s Teen, Carrington Manous uses her public platform to advocate for dyslexia. Diagnosed at the age of 7, Manous has spent her teenage years informing others about dyslexia. As part of her awareness efforts, she founded the non-profit organization Carrington Cares in 2022, published the children’s book “Dyslexia Doesn’t Define Me” in 2023 and helped work on Senate Bill 48, which provides identification and support for students with dyslexia. Atlanta Parent spoke with Manous about her journey with dyslexia.

Q: When were you diagnosed with dyslexia?

I was diagnosed in second grade. I was at The Galloway School, and the principal realized I wasn’t on the same level as my peers and suggested that I be held back. My parents weren’t OK with that. I took tests, and they showed I had dyslexia. I was young and didn’t quite understand what dyslexia meant. I was ashamed, and I didn’t want to tell anyone. I had also been tested as gifted, so my parents and I didn’t understand how I can be both. It’s referred to as “Twice Exceptional,” as one can be both dyslexic and gifted. The principal told me, “You just have to take different routes to get to where everyone else is at.”

Q: What are the challenges that come with dyslexia?

It can be different for anyone. I had a lot of trouble with reading and spelling, and I still have some trouble with those. I went to The Schenck School for three years, and they taught me a lot of tips and tricks. They do a lot of advocating for students with dyslexia. I am very thankful for them. That work inspired me to create my own non-profit, and as I go off to college, I am excited to continue my work. I want to help other students who are like me realize that dyslexia isn’t something they should be ashamed of, and I want to empower them.

Q: What are the strengths that come with dyslexia?

It gives me more time to think on things, so I have a different perspective on life. Without dyslexia, I wouldn’t be as artistic as I am now. I love to draw and dance. I also love to write poems, and especially when I was younger, those would help me to express myself. The arts have helped me push through any challenge.

Q: Why did you start Carrington Cares?

I realized that I wasn’t alone, and I saw that other people learned like me. I know I’m not the only person who thought that they were alone. I wanted to help students realize they have a voice, and they have someone they can look up to. Through my research, I found there are so many people who have dyslexia and are role models. They didn’t let dyslexia stop them.

Q: What advice would you give to students with dyslexia?

Don’t listen to what other people have to say. I didn’t want to share, because I felt like people would judge me. People are going to judge you regardless. You can stay in your bubble and not push yourself, or you can step out of your comfort zone, and block out the haters. Evolve into yourself — that will make a difference. My parents helped me realize I didn’t have to dim my light to fit in. It’s OK to be different. Let your light shine.

Q: What inspires your work?

I get to see so many kids, and I can attest to my journey and my testimony: I was once in your shoes. If I had had someone I could have looked up to back then, I know the world would just have disappeared except for me and that person. That would have comforted me. I love sharing them with that they shouldn’t let dyslexia stop them.

Q: How do you hope to inspire others?

I have learned that once I use my voice, I can make a difference. My dyslexia isn’t something that I wanted to tell the whole world about, but I was able to step out of my comfort zone. I’m really glad that I did, and that I didn’t let dyslexia define me. I wouldn’t be here now if I hadn’t stepped out of my comfort zone. I hope that has a trickle effect for others and helps them know they can be comfortable with who they are.

You can learn more about Manous on her Instagram page or her website.