RAQUEL RILEY THOMAS CROWNED ELITE MRS. NIGERIA, QUEEN OF THE WORLD 2025

Library of Congress Honoree, Decorated Veteran, and Entrepreneur Advocates for Empowerment and Safety

Washington, D.C. (January 28, 2025) – Global media and entertainment powerhouse, An Officer and Gentlewoman, LLC proudly announces that its Founder and CEO, Raquel Riley Thomas, has been crowned Elite Mrs. Nigeria, Queen of the World 2025. This historic milestone adds yet another accolade to the distinguished career of a trailblazing entrepreneur, decorated U.S. Army Veteran, and humanitarian.

Raquel Riley Thomas’s journey exemplifies perseverance, excellence, and service. As a decorated U.S. Army Veteran, Raquel served as a photojournalist (5yrs) and Ordnance Captain (4yrs), earning numerous military honors, including the U.S. Army Commendation Medal (2x) and the U.S. Army Achievement Medal (3x). Recognized for her contributions to military service, Thomas was inducted into the Library of Congress, a testament to her lasting legacy and impact.

A Career of Leadership and Innovation

From the battlefield to the boardroom, the Hampton University graduate has built a career marked by groundbreaking achievements.

In 2011, Raquel founded An Officer and Gentlewoman, LLC (AOAGWLLC), a global media and entertainment company with a current portfolio valuation of $1.9 billion. The company specializes in public relations, talent management, brand management and production, winning over 75 industry awards and producing events at esteemed venues like the Kennedy Center.

As a passionate entrepreneur, Raquel also launched Raquel Riley Thomas Beauty Line (RRT Beauty) in 2020, offering performance-based, long-wear makeup for professionals and beauty enthusiasts.

Empowered Defense: Strength, Safety, and Self-Worth

As part of her reign, Raquel is championing her new platform, "Empowered Defense: Strength, Safety, and Self-Worth." This initiative is dedicated to equipping girls and women of all ages with the tools to protect themselves, both physically and mentally. A strong believer in the importance of self-defense, Thomas is an active practitioner of Taekwondo and Tao meditation underscoring her commitment to leading by example.

“My mission is to help every girl and woman feel strong, safe, and capable,” said Thomas. “Self-defense is not just about physical safety—it’s about building confidence, discipline, and affirming self-worth.”

Commitment to Service

Raquel, a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc, is committed to community service. Raquel is a staunch advocate for Veterans, and she serves on the Advisory Board of Operation Renewed Hope Foundation. Putting her media background to use, Raquel is the Publicist for the Southeast Emmys. She is also a champion for mental health awareness, supporting the American Federation for Suicide Prevention, a cause deeply personal to her after the loss of her mother in March 2013. She is the recipient of the President’s Volunteer Service Award (Lifetime Achievement).

 A Devoted Family Life

Raquel Riley Thomas, originally from Maryland, lives in Georgia with her husband, West Point graduate Ron Thomas, Esq. Married since 2006, they have four daughters: two are their own, including a college student studying aerospace engineering and a celebrity teen chef, while Ron’s two adult daughters are college graduates.

 A Visionary Leader

As Elite Mrs. Nigeria, Queen of the World 2025, Raquel will promote her platform “Empowered Defense: Strength, Safety, and Self-Worth”, on a global scale. Her reign will include appearances, speeches, and community engagements that inspire and uplift individuals worldwide. Raquel will vie for the title of Elite Mrs. Queen of the World in May 2025.

Stay Connected with Raquel

Follow Raquel Riley Thomas as she embarks on this exciting new chapter:

Instagram: @raquelrileythomas

Instagram: @rrtbeauty

For interviews, appearances, and pageant sponsorships, please contact L. Nelson at pr@aoagwllc.com.