Beauty Queen: Jesyl Pacanza Calvario

Jesyl Pacanza Calvario is a 19-year-old beauty queen from Tagbilaran, Bohol, Philippines

I was 17 years old when I joined Mutya sa Tagbilaran. Participating in Mutya sa Tagbilaran was an extraordinary opportunity to shine on a prestigious platform, representing the essence of beauty, talent, poise, and dedication. It served as a remarkable stage provided by Tagbilaran City, enabling personal growth and creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

The pageant not only celebrated individual achievements but also showcased the vibrant spirit and culture of Tagbilaran, making it an unforgettable experience for contestants and spectators alike. Even though I didn’t win, I knew to myself that I really did my best. Maybe the stars were not aligning for me, and I was not yet ready because I’m not used to standing in front of many people. Or should we say it was my first time joining such a big event of a beauty pageant. It was not bad for a first-timer; instead, it was indeed a great experience for me to improve myself in some aspects.

While my journey as a contestant in Miss Danao Tourism 2023, where I proudly earned the titles of 4th runner-up, Miss Bench Body, and Best in Interview, was a testament to perseverance and passion. And still, I’m the youngest among the candidates, but it’s not a hindrance to achieving what you want and to go beyond your comfort zone.

While the path to such a prestigious beauty pageant was challenging, the experience bestowed upon me invaluable opportunities and memories to cherish for a lifetime. Lastly, I was crowned as Ms. Ambassadress of Bohol Wisdom School College of Education 2023. Joining beauty pageants is my passion. For me, this is the string for honing, polishing, and sharpening my outer and inner character and attributes.

Jesyl: One thing I’ve learned joining such beauty pageants is to always clap and celebrate the achievements of others and trust in God’s timing, knowing that when the moment is right, the Lord will graciously pave the way for my dreams to make it happen. I knew it’s not the end. I want them to inspire that always go with the flow and follow where your heart belongs.

How did you get into pageantry? What made you want to compete?

Jesyl: I entered pageantry because people who know me recognized my potential. Their inspiration and encouragement pushed me beyond my comfort zone to bring out my best. Competing in beauty pageants has been a dream of mine for a long time. I’ve always felt a passion for being on stage, despite not being the best at it. Additionally, I’ve been inspired by the talented and beautiful ladies I’ve seen on social media. Furthermore, my supportive family has been with me throughout my pageant journey, encouraging me to dream big and work towards fulfilling those dreams someday.

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

Jesyl: For me, beauty goes far beyond mere appearance. To me, it encompasses qualities like kindness, authenticity, creativity, and resilience. It’s about the harmony of inner virtues and outer expressions, reflecting the depth of one’s character and the richness of their soul. Beauty is found in the uniqueness of each individual and their ability to inspire, uplift, and connect with others on a profound level.

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

For me, what makes me special is being who I am and standing up for what I want. What sets me apart from the other contestants is being confident in everything even though I’m not that good.

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

Jesyl: If I were to win, I would leverage my platform to promote education, empathy, and inclusivity. I’d use my title to advocate for causes like mental health awareness, environmental sustainability, and equality. Whether it’s through raising awareness, fundraising, or actively participating in initiatives, I would work tirelessly to make a positive impact and inspire others to do the same. My goal would be to foster a more compassionate and supportive society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

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

Jesyl: In the future, I dream of continuing to inspire and empower others, whether it’s through the pageant world or other avenues. I envision myself using my platform to advocate for important causes, make a positive impact in my community, and contribute to creating a more inclusive and compassionate society. Additionally, I aspire to pursue personal and professional growth, explore new opportunities for learning and self-discovery, and cultivate meaningful relationships with people from diverse backgrounds. Ultimately, my dream is to lead a fulfilling life where I can make a difference and leave a positive legacy for future generations.