Ms. Summit Indonesia 2024: Widya Swastika

A fashion and runway model turned pageant queen, Widya will be a strong contestant in the upcoming Ms Summit pageant.

So, how did you get into pageantry? What made you want to?

As a fashion and runway model, many people have approached me to join their pageants, but I always thought that pageantry was not for me and that the timing was not right. However, one day, my dear friend, Joyce Cardenas, the winner of Mrs. Summit International Pageant 2023 and the Australian director for Summit International Pageant, called and shared a different perspective on joining the pageant. It took me more than two weeks to decide and join. She opened my eyes and convinced me that competing in a pageant would bring positive outcomes. What made me decide was that I wanted to improve myself, become a better person, and learn new skills. I believe this pageantry journey will teach me a lot of positive things, especially to focus on goals.

What does beauty mean to you? It’s more than just looks, right?

Beauty to me is something that comes naturally, like someone who is confident and knows what they are doing but stays humble. I believe beauty is not only about external looks but also comes from within our hearts, how you behave in daily life towards others, and how you treat other people.

What makes you special? What sets you apart from the other contestants?

I am an honest person, and I am blessed to have strong compassion and empathy towards others. I cannot see other people suffer if I can help. Seeing the unfortunate always makes me put my feet on the ground. I always feel my glass is not full if I haven’t done anything to help others in any way that I can.

If you win, how would you use your title to help others?

I promised myself that if I win, I will be more active in the community and help others in need. As a start, I will use my title and influence to encourage others to sponsor or raise money to support my charities. One is Mind Your Fashion, and the second one is MND Queensland. I will dedicate myself to shining a spotlight on them and raising awareness so that more people know where to seek help and reach out, also for making donations.

What’s the coolest thing you’ve learned from being in pageants?

Practicing the pageant walk is quite challenging but cool and fun at the same time. It’s very different from the runway walk that I am used to. Also, being in the pageant has taught me more about resilience, not easily giving up on something, and staying focused until you achieve your goals.

How do you deal with people who might say mean things?

I always believe that if you are not doing the wrong thing or causing harm to other people’s lives, then don’t bother with what other people say. Stay true to yourself, stay positive, keep going, and focus your energy on something important that needs you more.

Tell us about a time something amazing happened during a pageant!

I met some of the contestants in Australia, and we practiced walking together. We laughed, really had a great time, and made strong bonds.

What kind of person do you think does well in pageants?

A genuine, humble, down-to-earth person who respects others will likely do well, not only in the pageant but in everything they do.

Being in a pageant means a lot of people are watching. How do you stay yourself through it all?

My parents always taught me to have good manners and behavior since I was a little kid, and they always remind me and set an example to stay humble and down-to-earth no matter what position I am in life. I always think that I cannot be who I am today without the support and help from others; that’s what makes me always be myself.

What do you dream of doing in the future, pageant world or not?

My dream in the future is to focus on making my parents and family happy. I will dedicate myself more to the community, help others in need, and put smiles on their faces. I will definitely join the pageant world and spread positivity.