I never in a million years pictured myself as a pageant girl. I was always the shy one in school, keeping to myself and staying in the background. Taking that leap and deciding to enter a pageant turned out to be the best decision I could have ever made for myself.

Through this journey, I've built up my self-confidence in ways I never thought possible. I've participated in numerous interviews that have equipped me with skills I'll carry into my future. But perhaps most meaningful of all, I've been able to share my story across the world.

What started as a terrifying step outside my comfort zone has transformed into one of the most empowering experiences of my life.