## 2024-08-12 16:00:00
For Lou Marchand, the journey to becoming Miss International Centre-Val de Loire began with an Instagram ad. “I spotted the competition and started building my application,” she explains, her voice brimming with enthusiasm. The 18-year-old recent high school graduate had already captivated the competition team with her profile.
The next step in Lou’s journey is on September 14th in Roubaix. She will compete against other regional candidates to represent France in the Miss International competition, one of the most prestigious pageants in the world, alongside Miss Universe and Miss World.
Before she dreams of Japan, Lou has to prepare for the big day. “We have challenges to complete by the 14th, such as appearing in local press, finding sponsors, and posting photos in regional sash,” she lists. The judging will assess her verbal skills, outfits, and ability to handle stress through open-ended questions.
Lou’s passion for pageants started early. “Since I was little, I have watched Miss France with my family, and every year I eagerly awaited December,” she confesses. This affinity for the stage is evident in her determination to use the platform for more than just personal glory.
Lou Marchand sees the competition as a way to reclaim her identity after facing harassment for her hair color. More importantly, she wants to promote mental health awareness among young people, a taboo subject that she wants to destigmatize.
The Rise of Empowered Beauty Pageants: A New Era for Young Women
Modern beauty pageants have undergone a transformative shift, moving beyond traditional ideals to empower young women. Contestants like Lou Marchand are using their platforms to highlight important topics like mental health, body positivity, and representation.
From Contestant to Role Model
Pageants have evolved into platforms for personal growth and social advocacy. Contestants embrace their journeys, transforming challenges into strengths and inspiring others. This shift in focus is evident in Lou’s commitment to mental health awareness.
Expanding the Definition of Beauty
Pageants are becoming increasingly inclusive, celebrating contestants for their intelligence, ambition, and community engagement, not just their physical appearance. This shift is amplified by social media, where contestants can connect with audiences and showcase their true selves.
The Role of Education and Career Aspirations
Many modern contestants prioritize education alongside their pageant pursuits. With ambitions that extend into professional fields like psychology, participants are proving themselves to be future leaders in their respective industries.
International Representation and Global Connections
Modern beauty queens are increasingly focused on global representation, as seen in competitions like Miss International. This offers contestants a chance to connect with peers from around the world, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose. Such international experiences broaden their perspectives and empower them to become global advocates.