Beauty pageants are competitions in which contestants are traditionally judged on their physical and social attractiveness. Modern pageants have now gone to judge on inner beauty, poise, and ability to make a difference in the community, despite their vanity. The big four, and widely broadcast beauty pageants are Miss Universe, Miss World, Miss Earth, and Miss Grand International, which are the most prestigious, even though thousands of pageants are held annually around the world. So what are the duties of a title holder? How can we ensure this opportunity goes beyond the cosmetic exterior?
As I had mentioned, most modern pageants have tried to expand beyond just attractiveness and judge on the young women’s leadership, mentorship, and passion to make an impact, especially towards something that they may hold personally. The duties of titleholders are universal. Usually, it includes going to events, charities, organizing fundraisers, and starting up initiatives that contribute to their platforms. It is a celebration of sisterhood, community service, and confidence for the young women to interact with their communities and learn the core tenets of leadership and personalize their reigns through their chosen incentives. Pageants are an opportunity for young girls to open pathways into their identities and personalities and retain skills that they did not even believe they could inherit from the challenging and foreign experience that pageants can bestow upon them. But these skills are critical and fundamental to pursue and advance as these girls grow into amazing young women and seek the endeavours, career goals, and ambitions that are bigger than themselves. Pageants are the bedrock of many skills that are paramount to different career paths and professions, which makes it such an honourable journey. What makes it even more special is that you are going through these challenges amidst a growing sisterhood and supporting your fellow sisters and their journeys to become successful, graceful, and confident young women.
My advice is, if you’re ever considering a pageant? Be your most authentic self. The only way in which you can thrive in pageants is if you exhibit your most unique self. It is an opportunity to be the best version of yourself and allow your personality to shine through. It is always important that you find a pageant that aligns with your morals and values, and one that you think will allow you to thrive professionally as a leader but also as a person.
Jennifer Stewart, entrepreneur and CEO, says the most thrilling moment from her history in pageants was the interview round. Sitting there in front of a panel of judges, talking about you, your community, personal beliefs, and issues surrounding our world today. She states these experiences gave her the ability to think on the spot, articulate her thoughts, and face challenging questions head-on. Skills that are fundamental to her position and in the corporate world. These are the things that young women can inherit through being a part of pageants, and it is what makes being on stage with other sisters who are sharing the same experience so empowering.
It is not just about the crown; it is the journey leading up to the crown. And even if you do not win the big title or have the glossy gemstones glimmering on your head, the experience, the lessons, and the relationships should feel equally as honourable as winning the crown should feel.
Sources:
From beauty queen to CEO: embracing my past and empowering my present