Lucas Oprescu spoke with #Powerjournalist Markos Papadatos about representing Rhode Island in the 2026 Mister USA pageant.
Mister USA
Mister USA is an American beauty pageant, which is held annually, and the winner goes on to represent the United States in the Mister Universe competition. It is a celebration of culture, diversity, beauty, intelligence and empowerment.
It believes in the power of young leaders to make a difference in the world. It is not solely about outer beauty; it recognizes the inner beauty and intelligence of their contestants.
How does it feel to be representing Rhode Island?
It feels good. If I’m being completely honest, I’m not actually from Rhode Island, so it’s definitely an interesting experience. I have zero ties to the state, but now I feel like I have an obligation to visit. I’m excited because I’ve developed a whole new appreciation for a place I’ve never even been to.
How does it feel to be competing in Mr. USA?
It’s exciting. I’m looking forward to connecting with people from all over the world. Even though we all come from different backgrounds, I think we’ll all connect in one way or another. I’m really here for the experience—meeting new people, networking, and enjoying the journey.
Of course, winning would be the cherry on top, but it’s not my sole focus.
What motivates you every day?
My biggest motivation is simply becoming a better version of myself. I try not to focus too much on the future. Instead, I concentrate on what I can do in the present to build the future I want. I used to overthink possible outcomes, but over the last few years I’ve trained myself to trust the work I’m putting in today.
That mindset has served me much better. For me, it’s about eating healthy, working out, improving myself, and doing everything I can to reach my full potential.
What is your advocacy or message as a Mr. USA contestant?
My message is simple: be yourself and stop worrying so much about what other people think. As long as you’re a good person with good intentions, embrace who you are and be confident in it. Never change yourself just to please others because you’ll never truly be happy. Nobody is perfect, and not everyone is going to like you—and that’s okay.
The goal isn’t to be perfect for everyone; it’s to be authentic. When you’re comfortable with who you are, you’ll earn genuine respect and attract the right people into your life.
What’s the title of the current chapter of your life?
“Creating My Career.”
What do you do career-wise?
I recently left my job to fully pursue my career. From October to March, I lived in Mexico where I started a tourism business with a friend. We created a company that teaches people how to cliff jump because I’m a professional cliff diver. I plan to continue doing that while also working on social media collaborations with brands and traveling.
I’m also a commentator for the Cliff Masters World Series, which is similar to Red Bull high diving but focuses on freestyle cliff jumping. I travel to events around the world, commentate the competitions, and help energize the crowd. It’s something I really love doing.
If you could have one superpower, what would it be?
I’d probably choose super strength. That would be pretty cool.
What does success mean to you?
Success means feeling satisfied with the work you’ve done.
What would you like to say to the people supporting you on your journey?
Thank you. I love you all. To everyone in Rhode Island supporting me, I’ll see you soon—I’m looking forward to visiting.
What’s the one thing you want people to take away from watching you compete?
I want people to see someone who’s comfortable being themselves and confident in their individuality. If I can inspire even one person to embrace who they are and stop worrying about fitting in, then I’ve accomplished something meaningful.
Why should you win Mister USA?
I’m not going to say I deserve to win over anyone else because every contestant has worked hard to be here. But if I do win, I’d use that platform to continue spreading the message of authenticity—encouraging people to embrace their uniqueness, be confident in who they are, and never be afraid to show their true selves.
When you do that, you’ll find the right friends, the right opportunities, and a much happier life. And if being yourself causes you to lose people, then they probably weren’t meant to be part of your journey in the first place.
To learn more about Lucas Oprescu, follow him on Instagram.
