Lessons I Learned from Pageantry- A Letter to Future Contestants

Dear Future Contestant,

Participating in pageantry has been one of the most transformative experiences of my life. Beyond the glitz and glamour, it has taught me lessons that extend far beyond the stage and into every aspect of who I am. Here are the key lessons I’ve learned from my journey with International and American Women of Service.

1. Confidence is Built, Not Born

Walking onto a stage in front of an audience was intimidating at first, but with time, I realized confidence comes from preparation and choosing to believe in yourself. Pageantry taught me to embrace my unique qualities and present them unapologetically, both on and off the stage. My journey, and your journey, doesn’t have to look the same as anyone else.

2. The Power of Communication

Whether it’s answering on-stage questions, engaging in interviews, or connecting with people, pageantry sharpened my ability to articulate my thoughts clearly. It emphasized the importance of active listening and how impactful authentic communication can be. The more transparent you are, the more you can relate to others and they can relate to you. When you share your journey transparently, you can inspire others and have an impact on them.

3. Grace Under Pressure

Competing in pageants means navigating high-pressure situations, unexpected challenges, and occasional setbacks. I have learned to adapt quickly, and maintain composure—skills that have served me well in every area of life.

4. The Value of Hard Work

Pageantry requires relentless effort and dedication. It reminded me that success doesn’t happen overnight; it’s earned through consistent hard work. Sometimes hard work looks like practicing your walk over and over again until it becomes muscle memory. Sometimes hard work is practicing your interview skills and sometimes hard work is choosing to overcome your fears even when you want to back out or stay in your comfort zone.

5. Empathy and Connection

Pageantry introduced me to incredible individuals from diverse backgrounds. Hearing their stories and sharing mine fostered a deep sense of empathy and an appreciation for the unique journeys we all take. It taught me the importance of lifting others up and celebrating their successes. The life long friends that I have made through IAWOS are the biggest win in my pageant journey.

6. Inner Beauty Shines Brightest

While pageantry typically makes us think of outer beauty, it’s the contestants’ inner

qualities—kindness, authenticity, and resilience—that truly make them shine. I’ve learned to focus on cultivating these attributes and prioritizing personal growth over perfection. It’s important to always be your TRUE self. Don’t try to imitate someone else. Let the judges see you. Remember nobody can be you as well as you can!

7. Resilience is Key

Rejection and setbacks are inevitable, whether it’s not winning a title or facing tough criticism. Pageantry taught me to rise stronger from every fall, to learn from failures, and to never let temporary defeats define my worth. At the end of the day there can only be one “winner”. But, we are all winners when we think about all the personal growth that we experience from participating in pageantry. For me that looks like building my confidence, learning to be the best version of myself, growing my public speaking skills, and building lifelong friendships.

Final Thoughts

Pageantry is about so much more than crowns and sashes—it’s a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. The lessons I’ve learned from participating with IAWOS have become invaluable tools that guide me in both my personal and professional life. For those considering entering the world of pageantry, I say go for it—it’s an experience that can shape you in ways you never imagined. I hope you join us this year- I can’t wait to welcome you to the family!

~ Your 2025 International Women of Service Ms. Shea Thompson