You will compete at the Miss Hawaii USA Pageant, how will you prepare the contest?
I prepared both mentally and physically during the past several months leading up to the pageant. My workout routines are very vigorous; six days a week with one rest day. I have been consistent with my nutritional plan, which my personal trainer set up for me. I have also been preparing with my coach Jorge Esteban with Pageant Smart. Jorge has a way of making women feel unstoppable and confident.
What inspired you to walk on the course of beauty pageants?
My mother Michelle entered me in my first pageant when I was 11 years old. She always told me that true beauty comes from within. I whole-heartedly agree. We always watched Miss USA on television and dreamt of me one day earning the Miss USA crown. My mother passed away 5 years ago. I haven’t competed in pageants since then. The Miss Hawaii USA pageant will be my first state pageant since her passing. I know she will be watching over me and I hope to make her proud.
What do you expect to gain by competing in pageantry?
I have already gained so much from the process of preparing for the Miss Hawaii USA pageant. I’ve looked into myself and found that I am truly proud of the person I have become. I, like many young women, have faced challenges and heartache in my short life. Participating in this pageant has allowed me a platform from which to speak to my community about overcoming addiction. I have gained so much by telling my story.
Tell me something about yourself and your work. What do you actually do, and have done in the past?
I was born and raised on Maui. I have two older brothers and one younger brother. I have an older half sister and an older stepsister. I’m a survivor and advocate for substance abuse support, survival and awareness. I will continue to be a positive role model for men and women who feel like they have no other options. They too can overcome the adversities that I’ve personally faced. I currently work as a Visual Merchandising Coordinator Tommy Bahama Maui Location. In the past, I attended the Academy of Hair Design and Wenatchee Valley College.
Social media seems to play a major role in pageantry nowadays. Do you think this is advantageous to you? Why or why not?
I believe social media is now so prevalent in our society. Social media allows people to connect, to communicate and to get to know one another. Men and women are able to share their various values and ideals. I personally find that social media has been advantageous to me. I have connected with so many wonderful people via social media.
What would you advise any young girl out there who has a dream of being a queen one day?
True beauty comes from within. Be true to yourself, humble and kind. Do not conform to what you think other people want. Walk your own path. As long as, what you are doing doesn’t hurt you or another person, you are already a queen.