Her name says it all. She is smart, sweet, and absolutely stunning. She became the face of the Slavic Community ever since she won Miss Russian California 2014 and she is undeniably intriguing in her new role. Nadejda had never competed in a pageant before, so she went through a slight phase of self-doubt. It was the encouragement from her family and loved ones that allowed her to recognize her strong desire to represent her heritage in our diverse community. She also saw it as an opportunity to get involved and challenge herself. Nadejda recalls the six weeks of rehearsals with nine young women as one of the best and most rewarding experiences. “We had amazing people with the Russian American Media and pageant coaches that took care of us and so selflessly made themselves available to ensure we were prepared for our big day. They instilled in us the importance of good sportsmanship and the value of being ourselves. As we got ready to talk about our passions, they ensured us that speaking from the heart is what is going to guide us through the answer and comfort us on stage,” says Nadejda. She believes that time leading up to the pageant was what made the whole experience so meaningful. It forced her to reflect upon herself, and think about who she truly is. It gave the participants the opportunity to think about what they wanted to share about themselves. For all of the contestants putting themselves out in the open was a growing experience both as a group and as individuals. Encouraging one another seemed to make them stronger. “I loved the fact that absolutely none of us ever hesitated to help one another back stage, anything from lending makeup to painting nails to just simply toward the end I knew that crown or no crown, title or no title, I will be walking away with a new appreciation for pageants, greater knowledge, a moving experience, and most importantly, newfound friendships. Winning to me, meant that I get the chance to take a step further and proceed to represent the Russian American community, continue to grow, and work hard to be the best role model I can be,” says Nadejda. Hearing her name called as the new Miss Russian California 2014 was truly a surreal and honorable moment. She was overcome with so much emotion that she felt like her heart exploded with joy. Accomplishing something that she had worked hard for and genuinely desired felt like a dream come true, especially since she contended with so many incredible young women. She felt exceptionally thankful to the sponsors and all others who brought the event to life and gave her this once in a lifetime opportunity. She felt especially fortunate to have the chance to share her interest in nutrition and speak out on the importance of our future generations to understand how crucial it is to live a healthy lifestyle. Nadejda have participated in the Roseville & Sacramento Santa Parade, Christmas Lights for the underprivileged children, Pirate and Princess Night at Chickfil-A Arden Fair, and she walked for many talented designers at different fashion shows. The support from her family, friends, and loved ones also played a key role in her courage to compete and be successful. She feels blessed to be a part of something so special and she will never forget the many memories she made. “I’m proud to say that I overcame a lot of fears, particularly public speaking, which rendered me to grow as a person. It wouldn’t have been the same without the other girls doing the same alongside with me, teaming up all together to show the public the accomplishments of our community as well as the remarkable Slavic women within it,” sums it up for our Miss Russian California 2014.
24
:: R
T
M
.R
A
M
.