Did you face any moment of disappointment with yourself during the pageant journey, and how did you overcome it?
At times I doubted myself. I didn’t think I was working hard enough; although, I was working out every morning and evening , I had changed my diet, I fried my brain with questions, and bruised my feet from practicing my walk. I still told myself if I really wanted the position as titleholder then I need to put forth more effort. I prayed constantly and continued to push myself even harder. I came into this pageant not knowing much about pageantry, but I knew the only thing standing between me and the titleholder position was the amount of effort I exerted.
What would you advise any young girl out there who has a dream of being a queen one day?
Don’t get caught up in trying to fit into the stereotypes of the perfect pageant girl; doing that will only take away from who you are as a person. Being 100% you is going to give you the confidence you need and allow you to stand out amongst the other contestants. Every girl is born a queen and she doesn’t need a crown to portray that. When she is competing on stage, that’s her competing to claim her throne.
What do you expect to gain by competing in pageantry?
I will be happy with just feeling victorious for enduring such a challenge! There is so much to gain from competing I couldn’t possibly list it all, but mainly the opportunity to surround myself and build a bond with other beautiful, strong-minded women like myself. As well as, having the chance to inspire others through some of the struggles I have faced.
We’ve all seen the stereotypical portrayals of pageant contestants, a la Miss Congeniality, spreading peace, love and beauty throughout the world. How do you think you’ll make a difference?
I see myself bettering the interactions amongst different cultures. Division is one of the larger problems we face as a society. It is easy to indulge in the food, clothing and customs of other cultures; however, we need to recognize the beauty in the historical and daily contributions each culture has made to build this country. Once we are more culturally aware and have a better understanding of the people we surround ourselves with daily, we can then operate better as a country.
Thanks to the beautiful Chelsea for the interview. Pageants News wishes you all the very best for Miss Tennessee USA pageant.
