自我介紹 Self-introduction: 

Though I long wondered what standing on a beauty pageant stage would feel like, self-doubt kept me from believing I could join one. I feared others’ judgement and erroneously defined beauty as a checklist of physical features I didn’t have. Now, I’m learning that beauty is a skill you build—it’s kindness, confidence, and the courage to pursue your interests.

For much of my life, fear kept me from opportunities I wanted. It kept me rehearsing unspoken conversations with people I admired. It kept the art and writing I’m proud of hidden on my hard drive.

I refuse to let fear continue to dictate my life. Through this pageant, I choose to act despite fear and strive for a life I’m proud to recount. And I hope to encourage girls who, like me, have doubted their worth to start before they feel “ready.”

Thank you for joining me on this journey!