Jennifer Kumiyama

Jennifer Kumiyama

The oldest of six children, Jennifer Kumiyama was born with a rare congenital disorder called Arthrogryposis, relegating her to a wheelchair her whole life. This, however, has not been detrimental to her existence but has helped it flourish, becoming Ms. Wheelchair California 2010 & 1st Runner-Up Ms. Wheelchair America 2011.

She is the state coordinator for the Ms. Wheelchair California Foundation, which held it’s first pageant at the Long Beach Public Library, Main Branch, on March 3rd this year (also where 8-year-old Katie Hull of Long Beach was crowned Little Miss Wheelchair California 2012).

“I love my city because it is beautifully eclectic and equally accepting of those differences,” she said. “When you live with a disability, your independence — no matter how limited — means everything to you. Long Beach is full of resources that ensure the quality of life for residents, and even visitors, living with disabilities. I wanted to share what I love most about Long Beach with the rest of California.”