Last weekend, I had the privilege of being part of a judging panel to select the winners of the junior divisions of American Coed Pageants. The system, which is celebrating its 40th edition this year, offers wonderful opportunities for young girls and women of all ages and status to showcase their personalities, talents, speaking skills, natural beauty, and of course, to shine on stage. There is no swimsuit competition.
The event took place at the ballroom of Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista in Orlando, Florida. The preliminary interviews, personal introductions and evening gown competition were held on Saturday, September 3, followed by the finals on Sunday, September 4. There were two sets of judges. My set was tasked to judge the contestants in the junior and intermediate divisions: Princess (ages 3-6), Sweetheart (ages 7-9), Pre-Teen (ages 10-12), and Junior Teen (ages 13-15). The other set was tasked to judge the senior divisions: Teen (16-18), Miss (19-24), Ms. (25-34), Woman (35-44), and Classic (45 and above). After the winners of the junior and intermediate divisions were crowned, I watched the seniors compete from the videographer’s elevated podium that allowed me to have a great view of the spectacle. I wish to thank Michelle Landry, the director of American Coed Pageants, for inviting me to the event and to my dear friend Rocky Graziano, who co-hosted the show, for introducing me to Michelle. To girls and young women who are looking for an alternative to glitz and glam pageants that focus mainly on looks, American Coed Pageants is one of the best alternatives which I highly recommend. For more information about the system, visit https://www.missamericancoed.com/