Erinn Figg, writer for the Memphis Daily News, wrote a wonderful article recently detailing the benefits to be reaped from pageant participation. And, yes, there are many! Poise, self-discovery, interview skills, confidence, committment to charity...just to name a few. I'm not here to say the pageant industry is perfect. I have definitely been disappointed and frustrated by less than fair outcomes on several occasions (especially since I have started coaching), but at the end of the day, regardless of the outcome, there are lessons to be learned and skills to be honed. The point of pageantry is (should be) self discovery, awareness, and improvement. If you are competing solely to win, you will be, more often than not, disappointed. Pageantry is a journey that should be enjoyed and appreciated for what it is...an opportunity to become the best version of yourself.
