Beauty Queen: Zoie L. Elbiña

Zoie is presently 19-years-old and a first-year student, enrolled for a Bachelor of Science in Accountancy at Mapúa Malayan Colleges in Mindanao. She has a huge pageantry history to create. She is a candidate in Mutya ng San Francisco 2024

What inspired you to participate in this pageant?

It has been my dream to join such a big pageant throughout my entire life, and this year gave me a sign as I manifested it a long time ago. I have achieved it with the support of my family and friends.

What qualities do you think are important for a beauty queen?

The quality a beauty queen must have is a big heart to understand the shortcomings of the people around us and mutual respect in order to attain harmonious living and a peaceful life.

How do you plan to use your platform if you win this pageant?

I will be the voice to help those less fortunate, like our dear Badjao brothers and sisters. They should be provided with a better life by giving them means of living or livelihood. Someday, somehow, I believe that they will make a difference in this community by providing them with education and employment.

How do you stay confident and maintain a positive attitude during the competition?

Staying confident and maintaining a positive attitude during the competition involves standing up, standing firm, and slowly making steps forward by motivating and encouraging yourself to achieve the goal of success. Always be kind to each other and respect one another.

What challenges have you faced during your pageant journey, and how have you overcome them?

One of the challenges I faced during my pageantry is fear—the fear of stumbling during the walk, the fear of being unable to answer properly, and the fear of being bashed. But those things don’t hinder me anymore because I strive to be better, to be able to walk, answer, and accept.

What do you think sets you apart from the other contestants in this pageant?

What sets me apart from the other contestants is my resilience and strength, shaped by the trials and circumstances I’ve faced in life. I understand that life is not a plain surface; it is filled with obstacles. These challenges have made me a fighter who stands firm amidst life’s problems. I am a lady who proudly represents San Francisco, embodying the experiences and lessons that have shaped me into who I am today.

How do you balance your pageant duties with other responsibilities in your life?

Balancing pageant duties with other responsibilities requires effective time management and prioritization. I make a schedule to allocate time for my studies, pageant preparations, and personal time. Staying organized and being disciplined in following my plans help me ensure that I meet my commitments without compromising my academic performance or personal well-being.

What do you think is the biggest issue facing young women today, and how can it be addressed?

An issue that young people face nowadays is stress and depression. This challenge is often exacerbated by societal pressures and the fast-paced nature of modern life. A verse from the Bible, 1st Timothy 4:12, has always resonated with me: “Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, and in purity.” This verse encourages young women to rise above their challenges and be exemplary in actions and attitudes. In addressing this issue, we have to promote mental health awareness and encourage young women to seek help and support when needed. By fostering a community that values and uplifts each individual, we can help mitigate the impact of stress and depression.

How do you plan to give back to your community if you win this pageant?

If I win this pageant, I plan to initiate and support community programs aimed at uplifting marginalized groups, such as providing education and livelihood training for the Badjaos and other underprivileged communities. By creating opportunities for education and employment, I hope to empower individuals to improve their quality of life and contribute positively to society.

What advice would you give to young women who are considering entering a pageant?

My advice to young women considering entering a pageant is to believe in yourself and your dreams. Embrace the journey with an open heart and use the platform to advocate for causes you are passionate about. Remember that success is not just about winning the crown but also about personal growth, building confidence, and making a meaningful impact on your community. Stay true to yourself and let your inner light shine. Thank you.