Happy International Pageant Day!

I have competed in quite a few pageants, but my first international pageant was the Miss Galaxy International pageant, where I represented the United States as Miss US Galaxy!

I am so honored to have competed in such a great pageant system and more importantly to represent the United States!

I am always asked by friends:

“What is it like to compete in an international pageant?”

Competing in a pageant is definitely a unique experience, I mean there are very few competitions where you will be interviewed in a formal setting, then asked to strut down a runway in a swimsuit and finally asked to gracefully take in the stage in an evening gown! It can be a bit nerve racking, but I thrive on competition and LOVE it!

While pageants may seem simple to some, there is actually a lot of work that goes into it from interview prep to getting in shape for the swim/fitness portion. I feel that pageants really showcase all aspects of women, from intelligence and social awareness in interview, poise and elegance in evening gown and confidence and fitness in swimwear.

I loved the Miss Galaxy International pageant, particularly the global and community aspect of this pageant. Meeting wonderful women from across the globe, learning more about them and creating a bond and sisterhood was such an amazing opportunity and I am so happy I was able to take part in this! I truly felt that Maria Torres, the international director of the pageant really did a great job in running this pageant and making us feel like a family.

I encourage anyone who has an interest in pageantry to give it a shot, what do you have to lose? I was hesitant about my first competition, but gave it a shot - and have never regretted it!

Miss US Galaxy Interview with the Tulle Project

Every girl, woman and person has the ability to do whatever they set their mind to - breaking stereotypes, changing boundaries and setting the standards.  I believe that girls and women do not have to categorize themselves in behaving one way or another, in fact we can change these perceptions set upon us by society.

Check out my interview with Silvana Favaretto, Founder of the Tulle Project.   In our conversation, we discussed the importance of embracing who you are and breaking stereotypes - everything from what it is like being a woman in a male dominated industry (finance), making a difference by living by example and showing that you can have brains AND beauty!

The Tulle Project is a place for women to look and feel beautiful, feminine, and graceful—and also encouraged, connected, and empowered.  Their mission is to help people make meaningful connections, share their stories and equip themselves to be their best.  For every skirt that is purchased, one will be donated to a child in need!

My take away from what I have learned over the years is:

Don't be afraid to show who you are and take a risk, who knows where it will take you!

Happy International Pageant Day!

Happy International Pageant Day!

I am grateful for all of the amazing people I have met and opportunities I have had throughout my pageant career!

Pageantry is more than just looking pretty, pageantry has given me a lot these past years - new friends, new opportunities, but more importantly, the opportunity to get involved with the community.  After my reign as Miss NY US, I became increasingly involved with Sports & Arts in Schools Foundation and now lead their Young Professionals Board as President.

I do not think I would be nearly as involved with the community if it were no for pageants. 

I am so honored to be/been involved with the Miss Galaxy (Miss US Galaxy), Miss United States (Miss New York), Miss Tourism (Miss Empire State), Miss America and other systems.

To all those considering entering pageants, give it a shot!  And if you have any questions, do not hesitate to reach out!