I had the opportunity to interview the beautiful Monika on her preparation for the next Miss Texas USA Pageant. Lets know a little more about her below!
What inspired you to walk on the course of beauty pageants?
I learned how to count my blessings, acknowledging those less fortunate than me, but I also learned that I have to work my butt off and be the best I could be. I grew up having positive expectations of myself and my outcomes. But the sad thing is that during the course of growing up, we lose this positive expectation mindset and we become afraid to hope and dream. Basically, we become pessimistic and fearful. I was inspired to walk on the course of beauty pageants because I want to embody a solution-based proactive plan. I want to condition my mindset and reprogram my brain to think differently. If I could use my brain to bring out my beauty I think it can be very powerful.
Who do you think will be your strongest competitor for the Miss Texas USA Competition ?
Every girl entering is considered as competition but I think my strongest competitor is myself. I am the only thing that is stopping me from getting that crown- that and my love for food! I have a hankering admiration for all types of food, I love to try new eats. And the fact that I love to cook doesn’t make it any better. But overall that’s all up to me.
"I have a huge respect for the traditional American Barbie but this was much easier for me to relate to Bollywood Stars because those girls in the films had dark hair and tan skin just like me! "
Some people say that beauty pageants are degrading to women, same with fashion magazines. How can you convince them that they’re wrong?
I think pageant girls are really dedicated people, they work really hard to get to where they are and must be disciplined – there is so much more to it than what you see. I also see nothing wrong in developing good habits to better yourself as a human being. They say that “we can always be better than we were yesterday” and if that means setting goals and attaining them I would not oppose to it. My family is conservative and they enjoy seeing me learn and grow in the process of preparation. My dedication and what I consider is important is solely up to me. If anyone frowned upon my interests I don’t think it would phase me, for the sake that I have already evolved into a more confident and secure woman and I thank beauty pageants for allowing me to attain that free spirit.
What do you expect to gain by competing in pageantry?
A step closer to reaching self-actualization.
What is your opinion about pageants that are being held worldwide for kids (-18 year old) ?
I mean depending on their root cause for why they want to rep themselves in such a manner needs to be regulated by their parents and coaches. These girls are supposed to be our future and with that they need to be a positive influence for the ones that need a role model to look up to. Also my opinion about minors competing in pageants is that their guardians should fully support them and keep note of their physical health as well as their mental health because it is just as important.
Who is your ideal beauty queen and how has she helped you to evolve as a beauty queen?
Aishwarya Rai, she is an Indian actress, model and the winner of Miss World 1994 pageant. Aishwarya Rai crowned at the age of 21 was an architecture student she received offers to act in film after being recognized in the pageant world. dedicated to her work because I am aware that she puts her family and culture first. I have seen a few interviews where someone tries to belittle for her cultural stance but she always has something witty up her sleeve and never fails to smile.
Thanks to the beautiful Monika for the interview. Pageants News wishes you all the very best for Miss Texas USA pageant.
