Seriously, Can We Talk About How We Judge Pageants?
You know what’s been bouncing around in my head lately? It’s this whole thing with pageant judging. On one hand, I genuinely believe pageants could be these incredible spaces where women really get to shine – share their stories, show off their best selves, the whole shebang.
But if we’re being real here, a lot of the ways we still size up contestants feel like they’re straight out of a time capsule.
I mean, think about it. We still put so much emphasis on how someone walks, whether their face hits some mythical “perfect” balance, how they pose in a swimsuit (seriously?), or if they can nail a perfectly polished 30-second answer. Meanwhile, the actual important stuff – their journey, the impact they’re making, how they’ve grown, what they actually stand for – often feels like it gets boiled down to a quick check on a list.
And honestly? That needs to change.
Here’s what I’m thinking we should be focusing on:
- Hearing their real voice: Forget the practiced speeches. Can they speak their mind with confidence, even if it’s not the “safe” answer? Do they have the guts to be authentic?
- What actually lights them up: Are they just chasing the crown, or is there a real fire in their belly for a cause? Are they truly connected to and representing a community they care about?
- The strength they’ve shown: Let’s not gloss over the tough stuff people have been through. Strength looks different on everyone, and overcoming challenges deserves way more credit than a flawless smile.
- Keeping it real: I’d take a passionate, slightly messy answer that comes from the heart over a perfectly rehearsed one that feels empty any day. Let’s value genuine connection.
- Celebrating what makes them them: Let’s cheer for the women who don’t fit the cookie-cutter mold. Because honestly, that mold is so last century anyway.
Look, pageants are shifting, and that’s a good thing, a really good thing. But we need to be super intentional about what we’re actually rewarding. If we keep clapping for the same old standards from 20 years ago, what message are we sending to the next generation of titleholders?
Let’s choose leaders, not just pretty faces. Let’s value what’s inside over just what’s on the surface. And let’s not forget that a true queen is so much more than just her walk – it’s her story, the impact she has, and the way she carries herself long after the crown comes off.