Crowns and Sashes Magazine Issue 20

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August 22 Edition WinnerCoverFront –2022WorldUnitedCanadaMs.AllySharaDr. PhotographyPooltonCharlottePhotographer

Inside Cover Winner Pre Teen Galaxy Europe

Wow!

Letter From the Editor

Hello Everyone and welcome to Issue 20! What a month it has been for me since the last issue! I competed in Regency International, and it was AMAZING! I placed top 5 and won the social media award as well as lots of other side awards including an achievement award for Crowns and Sashes Magazine. I then went on a family holiday to Lanzarote for a week so that’s the reason for the slight delay in this month’s issue. Ms Diamond U.K.

Much love Charlotte

Hello, hello, hello!

Fashion: CHECK! Opening Number: CHECK! So, with my outfits ready, it’s time for me to focus on getting my video submissions for Spokesmodel and Talent ready for sending and, of course, perfecting my walks for the stage element of my competition.

2022

Love and Light Lyndsay

Diamond

This year I feel so much more prepared and have a wonderful campaign going, which I hope to share with everyone in the coming weeks. If you have a mental health story, good or bad, then get in touch and message via my Instagram page (@lyndsay_mizen_pageants), or my Facebook page (facebook.com/lyndsay.mizen) to take part! I look forward to telling your stories. But, for now, I’ll just say Enjoy the issue!!

It’s time for another issue and, as we approach Autumn, I am looking forward to the nights getting darker, having a lovely cup of hot chocolate (salted caramel, of course!) on the go and my finals!!

Miss Curve Wiltshire

xxx Thoughts from your Assistant Editor: Lyndsay Mizen

October is the month for me, so just eight weeks left for me to get my ducks in a row Swimwear: CHECK! Gown: CHECK!

Hi everyone and welcome to our August edition Issue 20! I would just like to take this opportunity as always to thank you all for your continued support.

Love Faith Louise x Social Media Queen: Faith Gould – Junior Miss Atlantic UK 2022

I hope you have all managed a little get away this summer. I was lucky enough to have a beautiful holiday in Greece. Thank you to everyone who entered my competition to guess where I was travelling to. The lucky winner was Lacey Dobson! Congratulations to Lacey.

I am looking forward to attending Crown Camp this weekend. Hope to see many of you there.

Social Media Host: Natasha Streatfield –

luck!! Lots of love Mrs

2022 Welcome

Mrs Diamond Suffolk back to another fabulous issue of Crowns and Sashes everyone! everyone has managed in the heat! have had a lovely August enjoying celebrating my birthday I have met up with my Sarah Ms Diamond Somerset to start our breast cancer campaign for Coppafeel this month wining was a great success, and we can’t wait to do another, I am now preparing for the next Memory Walk on 10th September and off to the BBC’s Make a Difference Awards to see who’s won my category I have made the final four for fundraising so wish me Diamond

Hope

I

Suffolk xxx

 3 FEATURE: Meet the Team  10 INTERVIEW: Miss Voluptuous United Kingdom  12 - INTERVIEW: Sonja Wilson Ms Great Britain Classic Finalist 2022  14 - FEATURE: Meet the Quiz Winner  15 FEATURE: Meet the Judges  16 INTERVIEW: Miss Derry/Londonderry GB 2022, Amy Doherty  19 INTERVIEW: Becca Tasker Mrs Diamond Hampshire 2022  21 - INTERVIEW: Bailey Greenway - Miss Teen West Midlands 2022  24 - FEATURE: Pageant Calendar UK  25 INTERVIEW: Ms Voluptuous United Kingdom, Carissma Griffiths  29 FEATURE: Meet the Cover Star Ms Canada United World CONTENTS PICTURE COMPETITION WINNERS: FRONT COVER: Ms Canada United World 2022 INSIDE FRONT: Keira – Pre Teen Galaxy Europe INSIDE BACK: Beth Rice Miss Earth England BACK COVER: Beth Rice Miss Earth England

MAGAZINE LINKS https://www.facebook.com/Crowns Sashes /https://www.instagram.com/crownsandsashesmagazineMagazinehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJU2Sh402_cmoX8X

Have you competed before? If so, can you tell us about your journey?

What’s your pageant platform and why? My platform is bloods clots as this is very close to my heart, literally! I found out I had clots in my lungs 5 days after finding out I had been accepted as a Finalist for Miss Voluptuous. I couldn't believe it and with blood clots and information being so sparce in the UK and my own country Scotland I wanted to be the person to change it. I want people to know that it's okay take the mask off on how they are feeling as well because I am not afraid to admit it, but I struggle with my health condition because it affects me mentally however on a positive note, I have become the first UK Ambassador for the National Blood Clot Alliance and will be working very closely with this American built organisation. I want people to know that when their body is telling them something is wrong to go with their gut instinct and go get checked because you are most important in your life. I want to make a change and be that girl who is remembered for starting her own support groups and helping raise awareness and embracing having blood clots.

This was my 1st pageant and cannot wait for Internationals. What made you decide to compete in your current system? I always wanted to showcase my curves, but I also wanted to gain more confidence along the way and with Miss Voluptuous being an empowerment programme and not just a competition I felt this was the best pageant for me. It has showing me that regardless of shape, size, weight or height that it does not matter you can be whoever you want to be as it does not change what's in the inside and beauty comes from being yourself and the sisterhood within Miss Voluptuous has helped me be my true self. What is the best thing that pageants have taught you? It has brought out attributes I didn't know I had, for example it has giving me things to think about like where I see myself in 5 years’ time and a timeline of goals I want to achieve and put into action and giving me the strength to carry on regardless of what life has thrown me, it has taught me that I can struggle sometimes but it has also pushed me to get back out there and be strong at the same time

Title, name & age?

Miss Voluptuous United Kingdom Chantelle28McSharry

Interview with Miss Voluptuous United KingdomChantelle McSharry

My favourite round was evening because I felt I could embrace the stage and just look around and see everyone and I felt this was my moment to just really enjoy myself and feel like the bell of the ball. Plus I loved my dress, it was the first time I wore it therefore the feeling will always stay with me. I felt like a million dollars, and I was enough.

Miss Voluptuous International, I want to go all the way and be my own competition and set the bar high for myself and empower others to do so. If you believe you can then you will. I want to be proud of myself.

What’s the best advice you have for fellow pageant queens/finalists?

What was it like when you won?

What’s your dream title?

I loved hyping everyone else up therefore it didn't give me time to think about having nerves because I wanted everyone else to enjoy themselves so when I saw that I felt at ease and knew I could go out there.

Social Media Links: Facebook: Shaz Mx Platform: Unmask the clot

I won Miss Voluptuous United Kingdom and I can honestly say I have never felt so much emotion in my life because I wanted it so bad and when my name was announced I went into shock mode but at the same time my dream became a reality.

Instagram: mcsharcx

Being humble but not scared to be the voice for those who may not be as confident and speaking out. Always having a professional outlook but having fun at the same time and leading by example because I always say if you can't lead by example then how do you expect others to do it? Being able to handle good/bad controversy and knowing how to respond because sometimes it's not always easy if a personal remark is made. Lastly, being yourself and not changing for anyone.

How do you deal with pageant nerves?

What is your favourite ever appearance?

My favourite appearance ever has to be when I was doing my training for my platform because I feel so passionately about it and knowing what I am doing could potentially save someone's life and help others in the long run. What makes a good pageant role model?

Focus on yourself and do not compare yourself to other queens/Finalist because when you start focusing on what they’re doing you forget how amazing you are so don't take away your own spotlight and chances to shine like the diamond you are. Do one thing at a time and prepare because when you have everything in order you can feel proud and confident, and it also helps you see what you need to work on. What have you been doing since you won?

Since winning I have been planning my calendar and sticking to it. I already have stuff behind the scenes happening for my platform but also attending events to support my fellow pageant Community up in Scotland. I have been continuing my volunteering and also been in touch to start getting my outfits sorted for Internationals and already booked coaching!

What’s your favourite pageant round?

Picture Credits to: Style and Story Pageants

Interview with Sonja WilsonMs Great Britain Classic Finalist 2022

Sonja Wilson Ms Great Britain Classic Finalist 2022 Age 54

Title, name & age?

What the best thing that pageants have taught you? Pageants have taught me that anything is possible if you set your mind to it and that one person can make a difference.

What made you enter pageants in the first place?

I used to be a carnival queen in the 1980’s and I loved it so much. When the opportunity came up to compete again I jumped at the chance ! Have you competed before? If so, can you tell us about your journey? My previous titles go way back to 1987/88 when I was Miss Faversham. I then progressed to Kent and Sussex Queen in 1988/89. After a long gap I then entered Classic Diamond Uk and won in 2019. This system then took me to Internationals in the USA. I competed and won Classic Regency international in 2019.

What made you decide to compete in your current system? So I remember going to watch Miss Great Britain in 2019 and I was absolutely blown away by it. I also remember it as a child and so I am completely in awe of this system. When they announced a Classic category I still had my title because Covid had extended my reign. Out of respect for my directors I wanted to do a proper handover before looking at an alternative system. For me it was a really easy decision to make, I also love the fact that the charity work that the Great Britain system supports are fantastic. The two charities are Cancer Research Uk; the fact that cancer affects one in two people, this charity is so relatable to everyone, and Alex’s wish. Alex’s wish is a charity set up to help eradicate Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. It is very aggressive and every muscle in the body gets destroyed because of the lack of protein including the heart and lungs.

Any pageant nerves that I experience I use to help me create a sharp focus. I also find that talking to other contestants helps as everyone feels the same in various degrees. Laughing also helps to let off any nervous energy !

Since being selected as a finalist for Ms Great Britain Classic I have not only taken my title around the UK I have also taken it to the USA. Later on this month I will be taking it to Mexico. I am also organising a charity event incorporating my platform. All I can say is watch this space! What is your favourite ever appearance?

Ms Great Britain Classic as it’s so iconic! If you were to win what would it mean to you?

When I won Classic Diamond Uk and Classic Regency international it helped me to establish myself within the pageant community and to be able to offer guidance and support to the other girls competing. I enjoy watching other people starting their journey and watching their successes. If I was fortunate enough to win Ms Great Britain Classic not only would I take my title all over the country encouraging other older women to enter, I will also take it internationally so that in other countries it is also recognised. I would also use the title to help drive my platform forward to the next level.

What makes a good pageant role model?

What’s your pageant platform and why?

My favourite ever appearance was running Miss Drag UK and being able to talk on television about it. It was so much fun but exhausting!

What’s your dream title?

A good role model is a person that never gives up, has a clear set of values, is kind and supportive to those around them and is passionate about what they do.

What’s your favourite pageant round?

What’s the best advice you have for fellow pageant queens/finalists?

My favourite is the elegance of evening wear. In my opinion it is the epitome of femininity and in many cultures portrays beauty, happiness and the female form. How do you deal with pageant nerves?

My best advice is don’t copy other people that have previously won, focus on your own individuality. So many times you see girls trying to copy previous winners and it just doesn’t work! What have you been doing in the run up to your pageant final?

My platform is called “Transform”. I work with the LGBTQIA+ community striving for acceptance within the pageant community. I also have a trans son who before transitioning used to compete in pageants and now cannot because they weren’t born male. I also set up the UK’s first gender neutral pageant . This is called Miss Drag Uk and the applications came flooding in. I wanted to offer the opportunity of competing with the LGBTQIA+ Community.

Hi guys hope you enjoyed this brill issue!

I had such an amazing time back in pageant land meeting so many new people and reconnecting with friends!

Last year Laura placed first runner in the first ever Classic section of Ms Great Britain and won the publicity queen award. In October Laura will be competing for the Classic Diamond UK title as Classic Diamond S Glamorgan

Laura is joint Director of Pageant Queen UK and has over 30 years’ experience in the beauty pageant industry. Her first title was Miss Llanelli 1986 which led to a place in the BBC live televised final of Miss United Kingdom. Laura competed between 1986 1991 and during this time won numerous national titles including Miss Dyfed, Miss Penarth, Miss Cardiff, Miss Lovely Legs UK, Miss Brains and placed top 5 at Miss Wales 87. In 1989 Laura scooped Miss Great Britain Wales title and Welsh Model of the Year before ‘retiring’ to get married and study for teaching and social work degrees. Laura has competed at international level at Miss International Tourism and Mrs Europe where she placed top 5 and won the Mrs Europe Swimsuit title. Laura is mum to Erin White Miss Jr Teen Great Britain 16/17. Laura is very active in the pageant community as a judge and passionate advocate for modern positive pageantry and was awarded the Natural Beauty International Lifetime Achievement Award.

Love Taylor xoxo

Congratulations to this month’s Quiz Winner

I have had such an exciting month I have been to see my evening gown for Galaxy and I am absolutely in love! I’m so excited for you all to see it!

Me and MBUK Georgia also attended the IJM pageant workshop!

I am 52, mum to 4 beautiful girls and Grandma to 4 little cuties. I have been a part of Pageantry for over 4 decades representing my country many times internationally. I have also been honoured to judge at various events over the last 20 years. My platform is Green Queens an ecological and environmental platform and I am passionate about our planet. I am a qualified PT, Colour and Image consultant, Beauty Therapist and also ran my own clothing design business.

THANK YOU TO THE JUDGES FOR JUDGING THE FRONT COVER WINNER!

MeettheJudges

My name is Jayne Warburton, and I am your Classic Regency International 2022/Classic Diamond UK 2021/22.

“My previous titles go way back to 1987/88 when I was Miss Faversham. I then progressed to Kent and Sussex Queen in 1988/89. After a long gap I then entered Classic Diamond Uk and won in 2019. This system then took me to Internationals in the USA. I competed and won Classic Regency international in 2019”

Sonja Wilson Ms Great Britain Classic Finalist 2022 !

“My platform is called “Transform”. I work with the LGBTQIA+ community striving for acceptance within the pageant community. I also have a trans son who before transitioning used to compete in pageants and now cannot because they weren’t born male. I also set up the UK’s first gender neutral pageant . This is called Miss Drag Uk and the applications came flooding in. I wanted to offer the opportunity of competing with the LGBTQIA+ Community.”

Title, name & age? Miss Derry/Londonderry GB 2022, Amy Doherty & I am 26 years old! What made you enter pageants in the first place? Confidence, personal development, meeting likeminded, inspirational women and using my platform to spread awareness of Autism as my two little boys are both autistic so I hope to make society a more understanding and accepting place for them both. Have you competed before? If so, can you tell us about your journey? This is my first time competing I was given the push to apply for Miss Great Britain from the current Miss GB Eden McAllister. I’m so happy I took the leap of faith and applied because I truly feel like I’ve found my people and my confidence has grown dramatically over the past few months. It’s incredibly empowering to be around so many amazing women. What made you decide to compete in your current system? Miss Great Britain is not only iconic but is a system that is constantly growing, changing and embracing every woman, no matter what her background or story. You could be married, be a Mum like myself, it doesn’t matter about your shape, colour of your skin, religious beliefs everyone is equal and it’s incredible to be part of such a strong sisterhood.

What the best thing that pageants have taught you? Confidence and believing in who you are. We all have a story to share, our voice matters and we can all shine without dimming someone else’s light in order to burn our own brighter.

Interview with Miss Derry/Londonderry GB 2022 –Amy Doherty

Miss Great Britain of course that would be the ultimate dream. If you were to win what would it mean to you?

What have you been doing in the run up to your pageant final?

What’s your dream title?

What makes a good pageant role model?

What’s the best advice you have for fellow pageant queens/finalists? Having a positive mindset is perhaps one of the best pageant tips to embrace! Believe in yourself and your ability to succeed. Don’t think negatively about what might happen, you will only be sabotaging your efforts from the very beginning. If you don’t believe in yourself, why should anyone else? Furthermore, no matter what the outcome, there is always an opportunity to learn from the experience, gain knowledge and/or make a new friend or two.

I’m a very proud ambassador for Autism NI, I held my ‘Derry Girls’ charity event for Cancer Research UK & Alex’s Wish, I ran the Race For Life, I have a special walk planned to raise more funds for Alex’s Wish so far I have raised over £1000 and counting! I have been getting coached by the current Miss Great Britain Classic, the fabulous, Kirsty Fletcher who has taught me all things mindset, interview skills and so much more! Kirsty was the one who pushed me to apply to be an ambassador for Autism NI so I am beyond grateful for her help and support along the way. I was also nominated for an Ulster Tatler ‘Influential Women of the Year’ Award for my work in the field of Autism. There’s been so much happening over the last few months but I am so excited and grateful for it all.

What’s your pageant platform and why?

It would genuinely change my life. As a teenager who felt insecure and excluded to have the Miss Great Britain title would be emotional to say the least. I’m honestly so passionate about the Miss GB platform and I would dedicate myself 100% to the title and doing it justice. I think my boys would absolutely burst with pride as they are very excited for the final in October so that would be an amazing cherry on top for me!

Autism acceptance. My two little boys are both autistic, so it has been my mission since they got diagnosed to raise awareness and acceptance within society. I delivered talks at The World Summit & delivered a TED talk last year. I am currently an ambassador for Autism NI, and I run the support groups monthly here in my home city of Derry for families, friends, autistic people and others who want to educate themselves. It’s incredible to play a part in an individual’s journey and I don’t take it for granted.

What is your favourite ever appearance? My monthly Autism NI sessions it’s close to my heart and is my passion. I love being there to hear other perspectives and to help in any way I possibly can. That’s special to me.

I believe a good role model demonstrates their commitment to a desired goal and are willing to invest the necessary time and effort to achieve success. They don't give up easily and they persevere when confronted by obstacles. Their passion to succeed inspires youngsters to follow through and reach the goals they set for themselves.

I am most excited for swimwear as I feel this will be beyond empowering, especially as a Mum and someone with scoliosis (curvature of the spine). I love my body now, the story it tells and everything it has went through. I’m honestly excited to flaunt my stuff on the Miss GB stage and hope I make others inspired in the process. How do you deal with pageant nerves?

Meditation and gratitude journaling are my two go to ways to deal with nerves and feel great. I also have a breathing technique for stress, anxiety and panic takes just a few minutes and can be done anywhere. It’s called box breathing. Step 1: Breathe in counting to four slowly. Feel the air enter your lungs. Step 2: Hold your breath for 4 seconds. Try to avoid inhaling or exhaling for 4 seconds. Step 3: Slowly exhale through your mouth for 4 seconds. Step 4: Repeat steps 1 to 3 until you feel re centred. Honestly try it it works wonders! Follow my Miss GB journey on Instagram at @amydohertyxo

What’s your favourite pageant round?

Interview with Becca Tasker –

I'm Becca Tasker; I am 31 years old, and my current title is Mrs Diamond Hampshire 2022 What made you enter pageants in the first place? I entered pageants to help with building my self confidence, gain friends, have a voice for topics that matter to me, and I saw all the positives of pageantry. Have you competed before? If so, can you tell us about your journey? I joined the pageant community in 2018 as Mrs Hampshire curve 2018, went on to become Mrs Hampshire Sovereign 2019/20 which was the first system I took to the stage for, after Sovereign I joined Atlantic as Mrs Hampshire Atlantic 2020/21 competed virtually and then Mrs Hampshire Atlantic 2021/22 but after having some family issues I decided to step back from Atlantic. When things started to get better at home, I decided to join my daughter as a Diamond Finalist which has led to my current title of Mrs Diamond Hampshire 2022 What made you decide to compete in your current system? I decided to compete in Diamond due to several factors one of the chosen charities for Diamond is Samaritans which is a mental health charity and as my platform is mental health awareness it fit well with all that I do. Another big thing for me was the support both me and Zara has had from Tina and Danni who are my pageant directors. And finally, all the girls/ladies have been amazing, understanding and supportive of me with the challenges I have faced since I started my pageant journey. What is the best thing that pageants have taught you? the best thing pageants have taught me is that no matter who you are, you’re accepted. I have found it hard to fit in with others though out my life and to know I am accepted has really boosted my self esteem. What’s your pageant platform and why? My platform is #NeverFeelAshamed Mental Health Awareness. The reason I chose mental health is because I was diagnosed with borderline personality disorder in 2010. And I am fighting to break the stigma in regard to my own disorder and all other mental health illness’ that also face stigma

Mrs Diamond Hampshire 2022

Title, name & age?

I don’t know how I deal with my pageant nerves, I guess I do a lot of writing in my journals, nice deep breathing, shaking my hands/arms out and listen to music.

What’s your dream title?

I have been working hard on #NeverFeelAshamed and doing as much as I can to break the stigma around mental health by doing posts and interview with others in the pageant community. What is your favourite ever appearance? My favourite appearance is running my online charity pageant Miss Courageous UK. I have crowned my 4th Miss Courageous and my 2nd Miss Courageous Princess (1st runners up) What makes a good pageant role model? For me, I think a good pageant role model is passionate, has a strong platform, is supportive and carries their crown with grace, empathy, dignity and class.

My dream title is Mrs Diamond United Kingdom If you were to win, what would it mean to you? If I was to win, it’d be a dream come true. It’d also prove to myself that I am worth something and all my hard work has paid off. I’d carry the title proudly, courageously, and would treasure every moment of my reign.

What’s your favourite pageant round?

Don’t be afraid to be yourself, hold your head up high and no matter how difficult the lead up to finals is remember the reason you started your journey in the first place. What have you been doing in the run up to your pageant final?

What’s the best advice you have for fellow pageant queens/finalists?

My favourite round is evening wear. The way it makes me feel is amazing, like a real life princess! How do you deal with pageant nerves?

I love that MTGB is a two day event, I think that it really highlights that the system is all about creating a pageant family. What have pageants taught you? Pageants have taught me to get out of my comfort zone especially when making appearances. What is your pageant platform?

My first platform is Parkinson’s awareness which is in memory of my beautiful nan who had Parkinson’s for 6 years before she passed. When she was diagnosed I realised Parkinson’s wasn’t widely known about and there isn’t currently a cure. I aim to raise awareness and money for the charity in order for them to find a cure. Pageant Pattern is my second platform which is all about breaking the pageant stereotype and celebrating our achievements in and outside of pageantry. The slogan is queens with dreams!

After being a prom ambassador I wanted to continue meeting new people in a glamorous setting and that is exactly what I Google searched. Miss Teen Great Britain was the first thing that came up and after looking at the website and seeing that MTGB is all about sisterhood I entered without telling anyone!

Last year I also represented the West Midlands at Miss Teen Great Britain, it was my first pageant and I placed in the top 15! What made you decide your system?

What made you first compete in pageants?

Have you competed before? Tell us about your journey?

Interview with Bailey GreenwayMiss Teen West Midlands 2022

What’s your favourite pageant round?

What is your dream title?

A good pageant role model is someone who supports other girls and strives to make a difference.

My favourite pageant round is interview. I love being able to show the judges my personality and tell them what I have been up to since being a finalist. How do you deal with pageant nerves? When having pageant nerves you have to remember why you are there and remember all of the hard work you have done. Also try not to put too much pressure on yourself and have fun!

My dream title is Miss Teen Great Britain as it was the first pageant I ever entered, and I love what the system represents. It would give me a wider platform to extend my community work and I have always dreamed of hosting a charity ball if I were crowned for Parkinson’s Uk and together for short lives.

What’s the best advice for fellow pageant queens? My biggest piece of advice would be to try and say yes to every opportunity you are given, both as a finalist and as a queen. It is tempting to focus solely on the crown but try and enjoy the experience and have other goals other than winning. What have you been doing in the run up to the final and what has been your favourite appearance so far? In august I set myself a challenge to do an appearance everyday as appearances are one of my favourite parts of pageants! In this month I have attended events, volunteered and used this challenge to achieve my charity target for Together For Short Lives. One of my favourite appearances is when I ran the 5K Parkrun for Together For Short Lives, it was lovely to be joined by other pageant girls in my community and I hit my charity target after the Parkrun! What makes a role model?

About Samaritans

Every seven seconds, Samaritans answer a call for help. We’re here, day or night, for anyone who’s struggling to cope, who needs someone to listen without judgement, or pressure. Samaritans is not only for the moment of crisis, but we’re also taking action to prevent the crisis. We give people ways to cope and the skills to be there for others. And we encourage, promote and celebrate those moments of connection between people that can save lives. We offer listening and support to people and communities in times of need.

Whatever you’re facing, a Samaritan will face it with you.

In prisons, schools, hospitals and on the rail network, Samaritans are working with people who are going through a difficult time and training others to do the same.

Every life lost to suicide is a tragedy, and Samaritans’ vision is that fewer people die by suicide. That’s why we work tirelessly to reach more people and make suicide prevention

August 2022  Charity Fashion Show Jessica Ingham PT 19th August in Hartlepool Royal UK Pageants 20th August Fancy wear by Donna 27th August September 2022  Miss Britannia Crystal 3rd September in Wrexham MISS ELITE UK 4th September in Kent 2022 Warrior Charity Pageant 17th September in Burntwood Staffordshire Miss Exquisite World 17th September in Buckinghamshire Miss Pageant Queen UK 24th September in Crewe October 2022  Miss Fab and Fierce TBC Miss Sparkling Beauty UK 1st October in Swindon Miss United Kingdom Endeavour 1st October in Warrington Face of Scotland Foew.Uk 1st October in Coatbridge Miss Mystic Beauty 2nd October in Worcestershire Royal Sapphire 9th October Miss European Global. 9th October Miss United Kingdom Rose 14th and 15th October Little Miss Teen GB and Miss Junior Teen GB 16th October Miss Teen Great Britain 18th October Miss Diamond United Kingdom 28th & 29th October November 2022  Miss International TBC Miss Beauty UK TBC 19th and 20th November Galaxy Pageants Ms and Mrs 25th November Junior and Teen 26th November Miss 27th November December 2022  Welsh Pageant Awards 3rd December in Caernarfon (Donna Hanks) Miss Christmas star awards and pageant 11th December August 2022  Pure Schedule TBC 5th 7th August Miss Glamour UK and Miss British Beauty 7th August in Kent Crown & Glory European Pageants 13th August Miss Sovereign GB 13th August The Roaring 20s 13th August in Bristol Miss Global Hope 14th August in Derry

Understand what is going on with all parties, take an active approach by voting for the policies you want to see and hold your politicians accountable.

Interview –

What’s your pageant platform and why? So, some may see my platform as a bit controversial, as my platform is the UK's Labour Party. They say you should usually steer clear of politics and religion, but it is politics that implement the policies that brings national and international change. I always tell people that I am not here to convince them on anything other than to get actively involved in the political landscape, as it is something that effects all of us. How our country is governed affects us from our Health with the NHS to our Children's future with Education. The Labour Party overall aligns with my views, which is why it is my platform, but my message to everyone is to get involved!

I have competed twice before in other pageants. Once in 2010 for Miss Hertfordshire which is part of the Miss Universe System and Miss Caribbean in 2017, a UK based pageant for those of Caribbean decent, where I placed 2nd runner up. Both pageants I had competed in before the age of 30 and had a lot less pageant knowledge than I do now. With Miss Hertfordshire, I was completely new to the world of pageants. I was on a student's budget, no experience, kept it a secret and absolutely no idea what to expect, but I thought I would give it a go for the life experience. Since I was a drama student at the time, I was able to "act" the pageant part and I managed to finish in the top 14. For Miss Caribbean, 10 years later, I had a bit more preparation as the director was very involved through the whole pageant. There was support and workshops which I hadn't had before, so that helped a lot. What made you decide to compete in your current system?

The Miss Voluptuous System is all about women empowerment and is also for plus size women. The message of Empower, Elevate and Celebrate, resonated heavily with me and knowing my shape and size has changed as I have gotten older, I took the chance with the thought that to compete again without this personal pressure to look "perfectly snatched" and "firm" would be a much better experience for me.

In both my previous pageants I was one, if not the biggest girl competing, so this was really refreshing to not worry about my size. What is the best thing that pageants have taught you? Pageants have taught me that change is possible no matter how hard it can be. We have gone from a very male dominated gaze in the world of pageants to a more balanced one with a significant female input. Many systems which have been around for decades, like Miss World, are embracing diversity and change in a positive way. And with systems being created to include some amazing women, such as the Warrior Charity Pageant, if we can't make the change in an establishment, we can create the change we want to see.

Carissma Griffiths

Ms Voluptuous United Kingdom, Carissma Griffiths, 33 What made you enter pageants in the first place?

Title, name & age?

with Ms Voluptuous United Kingdom

I was born in the US where pageants are everywhere, so being brought up in England, which at the time there were not many pageants to choose from, I felt as though I had missed out. As an adult that glitz and glamour of being in a pageant never left me, so entering a pageant was a childhood dream of mine, being a Pageant Queen is a wish come true. /Have you competed before? If so, can you tell us about your journey?

What’s your dream title? My dream title right now is to become Ms Voluptuous International which is being held next year (2023) in April.

The way I deal with pageant nerves is the same way I deal with nerves in general, whether it be for a presentation at work or on stage singing or acting. That is to ask myself "How do I want to be remembered at the end of this?". I envision the version of me that I want to put forward and I step into that version. I find that knowing what and how I want to communicate to my audience allows me to get passed the initial nerves and leave me with excitement butterflies instead. It helps to remember that even the great Beyonce has an alter ego, another version of herself, that she adopts when she goes on stage.

My favourite pageant round has to be the fun fashion round. Here we can really see the personalities of all those competing, and it is a wonderful diverse range of outfits influenced by the interests of the contestants. This is by far the most visual way of seeing a contestant's character on the stage and can be the most fun round in any pageant.

A good pageant role model is also a good leader in my opinion. It is to lead by example their passions, their systems values and present a little bit of themselves as well. It is also someone who is aware of the environment they are in and responds in a positive way. Not only are we representing our own system, but we are representing the industry as well. We are looked up to as queens and criticised too, so we have a social responsibility to use that gaze to encourage others in positive ways. A great pageant role model understands the influence and the role they have and uses it effectively and positively.

What makes a good pageant role model?

What’s the best advice you have for fellow pageant queens/finalists? Be yourself to enjoy the journey. Many finalists feel as though they have to act a certain way or that there is a "pageant" persona they have to adopt to win. In every pageant I have seen, the one who is themselves are the most memorable and they usually have the best time whether they win a title or not. Be your good self as everyone else is taken!

What have you been doing since you won? In the run up to internationals I am looking at the story of myself that I want to communicate to my audiences and eventually the judges. I want my story to be represented through my outfits, my appearances, and what I put on my socials. I really want to live and breathe the values of Ms Voluptuous as they are very much my own. What is your favourite ever appearance?

What’s your favourite pageant round?

What was it like when you won? When I won Ms Voluptuous United Kingdom, I was so happy that I have a title to reach out and promote the Miss Voluptuous values of Empower, Elevate and Celebrate for all women. As a woman who has come across discrimination for both my gender and my skin, I know how important it is to have someone encourage, support and advocate these values. It would mean the world to me to be able to do that as an international title holder.

How do you deal with pageant nerves?

My favourite appearance was doing some acting alongside the great Sir Tony Robinson for the Labour Party. As a huge fan of Blackadder and Time Team, acting with him was a real pleasure and he was very much behind me, as a finalist then, for the pageant and what it represents.

We are the first breast cancer charity in the UK to solely create awareness amongst young people, with the aim of instilling the knowledge and tools they need to get to know their bodies. We like to talk about a serious message in a light hearted way, empowering people to start healthy habits for life

Although our main focus is on breast cancer education, we also instigated the #RETHINKCANCER Campaign, as we strongly believe young people should be taught about all cancers and how to lead healthy lives from a young age.

• Encouraging you to check your boobs and pecs regularly from a young age.

• Empowering you to seek advice from a doctor if symptoms persist.

• Educating you on the signs and symptoms of breast cancer.

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We want everyone to have the best possible chance of surviving breast cancer. Ideally, we want to live in a world where all breast cancers are diagnosed at the earliest stage possible, at which treatments are more effective and survival rates are higher.

Could you be the next Dr. World ®, Dr. America ® & Dr. United States of America ®? Deadline to enter: Dr. World October 1, 2022 Dr. America September 15, 2022 Dr. United States of America September 15, 2022 Dr. World ® Final segment of competition Live virtual panel interviews October 22, 2022* Dr. America ® Final segment of competition Live virtual panel interviews October 22, 2022* Dr. United States of America ® Final segment of competition Live virtual panel interviews October 22, 2022* To enter or for further information go https://www.drworldproductions.comto Social media links: www.facebook.com/courtneyjadetesterwww.instagram.com/courtneytester_PhotoCredit:Photosbun(Neng,PerthPhotographer)

My name is Dr. Shara Ally, and I am Ms. Canada United World 2022 and current delegate for Ms. United World 2022!

Have you competed before? If so, can you tell us about your journey?

What is your name and title?

Meet the Cover Star – Ms Canada United World

Canada United World is my first pageant competition that I’ve entered, and I could not be happier with my journey. The national Executive Director, Chioma Blaire Douglas, is influential to this pageant system as a supportive leader, mentor, and facilitator of cohesion for all of the Delegates, sponsors, and supporters involved. My journey began with no experience specific to the pageant industry, however I was fortunate enough to surround myself with coaches that were instrumental to my success of not only winning the national title of Ms. Canada United World 2022 crown, but also sweeping all of the awards, which included: Most Photogenic, Best in Swimwear, Best in Interview, Best in Elegance, and Miss Congeniality. This certainly was not a bad way to complete my first pageant, especially on my birthday!

What made you decide to compete in your current system?

In NEUROorganics, we fuse eastern and western approaches to care as the approach to care is influenced by the lessons I received when I met His Holiness, The Dalai Lama in 2019. The premise of NEUROorganics is to fuel your pain from your past into your future purpose. Each person on this earth goes through pain, and as a title holder, I am reaching a variety of audiences to help them strategically use that pain as leverage to help them achieve their intended purpose. In turn, this approach to mental health empowers people to live healthier lives, creating healthier communities. As a Doctor, Business Owner, and Ms. Canada United World 2022, I do not take my platforms for granted, and I do not take the opportunity to help people with their mental wellness journey for granted as it is a privilege to be on their journey with them.

Jessica Schiff, International Executive Director and CEO of the United World Pageant created a system that is rooted in sisterhood. This cultivated attitude and atmosphere fashioned an opportunity for all of the phenomenal Delegates to compete in a supportive and respectful manner. For example, while all of the women wanted the crown at the Canada United World pageant, we also were able to celebrate each other’s successes with and without the official title. Today, I still am in awe of the amazing women I met in this particular pageant system, for whom I am so proud to call my sisters. As a result of my experience in my national sisterhood formation, I am prepared to broaden my international sisterhood as a Ms. United World 2022 Delegate for the United World Pageant held in September 2022. What is the best thing that pageants have taught you? The best thing that the pageantry world has taught me is how to expand my mind when it comes to intelligence, physique integrity, and public speaking skills. As a Doctor who holds a Master’s in Business and Science, I was faced with the skillset that pageant girls do not always get credit for: maintaining grace under pressure. As a result of overcoming this challenge, this skillset has made me better in my personal and professional lives. The skills learned in this industry has simply saturated across areas of my life, making me a better person in relationships with others, and more importantly with myself. The self respect, worth and confidence gained by being in the pageant is priceless, and I am so grateful to have received these wonderful lessons. What’s your pageant platform and why? My pageant platform is rooted in the mental health arena with my business NEUROorganics Inc. As a Doctor working in this sector, I recognize the importance of taking care of your mental health, just as you do with your physical health. In other words, you can’t get a 6 pack without doing the crunches! The same principle applies with your mental health. You can’t build self confidence, esteem, respect, and worth without doing the mental crunches!

What’s the best advice you have for fellow pageant queens and/or finalists?

The best advice I have for fellow pageant queens and/or finalists is to have the grace to support your fellow Delegates within and outside your pageant system, the confidence to share in celebrating your or your fellow Delegate’s success in earning the crown, and the courage to use this opportunity to give back to your community, especially to women. It does not escape me that there are so many generations of women before and after me that would love to have the mere opportunity you have of even being on the pageant stage. Do not take this experience for granted, as it truly is an opportunity that not all women have access to.

What’s your favourite pageant round?

Shockingly, I enjoyed each round of the pageant as they each held their own level of challenge and fun. The interview round was amazing as I had the honor to meet a panel of Queens who have earned the right to judge if I would be an appropriate national title holder. The bathing suit round pushed me out of my comfort zone to embrace my feminine curves and to be proud of them. The elegant round in my evening dress was simply the cherry on top of me embracing my ability to be an empowered woman, sharing my vision with the audience during the final on stage interview question. Each category pushed me to be a better version of myself, and I am thankful for this experience. How do you deal with pageant nerves? Practice, practice, practice. I was dedicated to ensuring I felt confident in my performance to ensure my nerves would not get the best of me, and in fact this approach made the pageant night a fun one, rather than a nerve racking one! The equation of commitment to the process with the right coaches around you will knock those nerves right out of you! My social media handles/links are: 1. IG: (a) 4.3.2.(b)@doctor__ally@mscanadaunitedworld(c)@neuroorganicsFacebook:SharaAllyTwitter:(a)@sharaally(b)@neuroorganicswww.neuroorganics.com

CONTACT US VIA: CROWNSANDSASHESMAGAZINE.COMEMAIL:INSTAGRAM:@CROWNSANDSASHESMAGAZINEFACEBOOK:CROWNSANDSASHESMAGAZINESPOTIFY:CROWNSANDSASHESMAGAZINE Get your sparkle on with us!

Inside Back Cover Winner – Beth Rice – Miss Earth England Photographer The Broadway Studios

Inside Back Cover Winner – Beth Rice – Miss Earth England Photographer The Broadway Studios

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