When you first meet Sandahl Taylor, her warm smile and vibrant personality immediately draw you in. Behind that infectious energy is a woman whose life story is one of resilience, compassion, and a relentless drive to make the world a better place. From her work as a beauty expert to her deep commitment to philanthropy, Sandahl’s journey is a testament to the power of turning personal challenges into opportunities for growth.
A Life Defined by Service
Sandahl’s journey into community service began when her father suffered a life-changing heart attack and stroke in 2005. At just 17, she stepped into a caregiving role, a responsibility that deeply influenced her perspective on life. “It changed everything for me,” Sandahl said. “I realized that so many people need help, not just with their health, but with basic dignity and care.”
She became a Healthy for Life facilitator with the American Heart Association and later expanded her focus to include serving the homeless and low-income communities. “I saw a need, and I couldn’t ignore it,” she explained. “I knew I had to do something.”
Embracing Pageantry as a Platform for Change
Sandahl’s entry into the world of pageantry came later in life, after she had already built a foundation of community work. It was her desire to expand her impact that led her to the pageant stage. Competing in pageants provided her with a platform to share her message and connect with more people. In 2018, Sandahl earned the title of Mrs. Pennsylvania America and has since become a strong advocate for using pageantry as a way to give back.
“I never imagined myself doing pageants, but it opened up so many doors,” Sandahl said. “The title gives me a chance to reach people who might not have heard about the work I’m doing. It’s a way to amplify my message and make a bigger difference.”
Currently holding the title of Mrs. US Galaxy Ambassador 2024-2025 and Galaxy Ambassador for 2025 (two separate titles held simultaneously), Sandahl uses every opportunity to highlight the importance of community service. Whether she’s cutting hair for veterans or speaking at events, she’s always focused on helping others. “It’s not about the crown or the sash,” she said. “It’s about what you can do with it.”
Facing Challenges with Grace
One of the most personal challenges Sandahl has faced in recent years is her declining eyesight. Diagnosed with early-onset cataracts, she has already lost a significant portion of her vision in one eye and is slowly losing sight in the other. But rather than letting it hold her back, Sandahl sees this challenge as part of her journey.
“I may lose my vision, but I won’t lose my purpose,” she said. “I’ll keep doing this work for as long as I can, because there’s always something I can offer.”
A Vision for the Future
Beyond pageantry and her nonprofit work, Sandahl is passionate about expanding her reach. She dreams of taking her skills on the road, offering mobile haircut and healthcare services to those in need. Her vision for the future includes creating a network of support that travels directly to underserved areas, helping people regain their dignity and health.
“Everyone has something they can offer the world,” she said. “For me, it’s using my skills to make people feel good about themselves and giving them the tools they need to succeed.”
Sandahl’s journey is far from over, and as she continues to serve her community with grace and compassion, there’s no doubt that her impact will only continue to grow.
For more about Sandahl’s journey and her nonprofit work, follow her on social media or visit the Connecting Hearts, Changing Lives Instagram page.
