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A Queen of All TradesHere is a message from Miss Teen Illinois International and my friend, Megan Riesner. Her message just goes to show how incredible pageantry can be and how important it is to empower young women such as Megan. Without great role models and a strong support team, she could have had a much more difficult time finding her success. She shares her story in hopes that other young women will no longer be afraid of hard work and will get excited to set goals and achieve success.
“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” |
Dear Readers,
I live in Naperville, Illinois. I have lived here for about 15 years with my Mom, Dad, and twin brother Mikey. I just turned 18 Years old. I have a dog named DJ and we are huge Yankee fans! I began pageantry in 2012 and received a journey I could never have hoped for. Winning Miss Teen Illinois International 2013 was very unexpected and exhilarating. I have been given the greatest opportunities this year! I have been fundraising for exactly 10 years and established a non profit organization a year ago, Hats for Heroes where I collect funds to purchase hats, headbands, and bandanas to distribute to children undergoing treatment. Receiving my title has taught me the value of community outreach and I have been able to give a voice to those who do not have one. I was allowed to travel to not only Illinois hospitals, but 4 other states as well to bring Hats for Heroes to them! Competing for nationals this past June was the best week of my life. Not only did I gain sisters from states and countries, but I still keep in touch with them today. Being the first teen in Illinois to place top 10 was an honor and truly showed me how hard work does pay off! Being surrounded by other teenagers my age who devote their lives to a cause like I do was very empowering and not a day goes by where I don’t pray for their happiness and think about them. Without the support of my family and the Illinois International system, I never would have gained success. I live by the quote, “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” Its never too late to help others! Lastly, to those competing in pageantry and to my successor, treat your title as a job. You not only represent your state, but your family and yourself. Be a voice for those who do not have one and share your crown and a dream with them! Forever yours, Miss Teen Illinois International 2013 Megan Riesner |
Sincere Support |
I love that I can touch not only the people I want to directly reach but those who find my stories touching and reach out to me! Here's a blog entry from someone I think of as a second mom; she found my last entry "Besties, Bridges, and New Beginnings," striking a nerve in her own life and she realizes the importance of great friendships as I do.
Check out her thoughts here: http://theyellowkite.com/2014/02/21/wisdom-can-come-from-the-younger-generation/ |