What inspired you to walk on the course of beauty pageants?
I've ran in many pageants and each time I was able to do more and more in my community. Being able to make a difference in the world is what has encouraged me to keep running.
What do you expect to gain by competing in pageantry?
By joining pageantry I expect to gain the ability to set a good example for younger generations. When running in pageants there's many young women that look up to you and the best thing to do is to teach them that you should be 100% yourself. Never let society or what you see on social media tell you what you should look or act like. You're most beautiful when you're yourself.
What would you advise any young girl out there who has a dream of being a queen one day?
I'd tell any young girl to go for her dreams. I judged a little miss pageant and one of the girls who did not place was devastated. It broke my heart to see that she was so disappointed with herself. I think the best thing to remember when they're going into pageantry is that no matter what the outcome is, every little thing they did to prepare physically, spiritually, and mentally should make them proud. Pageantry is never easy and just being willing to enter is already a big accomplishment.
Thanks to the beautiful Kawena for the interview. Pageants News wishes you all the very best for Miss Hawaii Teen USA pageant.
