Breaking Barriers: Miss Rotorua 2023 Celebrates Diversity and Resilience

Breaking Barriers: Miss Rotorua 2023 Celebrates Diversity and Resilience

Challenging Age Norms in Beauty Pageants

The Miss Rotorua 2023 pageant, a long-standing tradition for 76 years, has recently made history by recording its oldest-ever participant. Tiana Hodge, a spirited 77-year-old woman of Te Arawa and Ngāti Whakaue descent, graced the event, not for the crown but for the enriching experience it presents. Hodge’s participation in the event shatters the age norms typically associated with beauty pageants, proving that age is no bar when it comes to stepping out of comfort zones and trying something new.

For Hodge, participating in the pageant was an opportunity to stress the importance of staying mentally and physically active, no matter what age. Known for her interest in fashion modelling, Hodge has been part of various fashion projects, adding another feather to her diverse hat with the Miss Rotorua 2023 pageant.

A Platform for Transformation and Inspiration

Kharl WiRepa, a Māori fashion expert and event coordinator for Miss Rotorua, expressed that Hodge’s participation could bring transformational change in her life. According to WiRepa, the pageant is not only about beauty standards but also about redefining these standards and embracing diversity. Hodge echoed this sentiment by recognizing WiRepa as a visionary leader with a clear insight into the industry.

Despite not clinching the Miss Rotorua 2023 title, Hodge’s journey in the pageant was far from unsuccessful. She bagged the ‘Most Improved’ award and was the first runner-up for Miss Te Arawa. These accolades serve as a testament to Hodge’s growth and the impact of her participation on the event and its audience.

A Beacon of Hope: The Miss Rotorua 2023

The prestigious Miss Rotorua 2023 title was won by Pareururoa Rangirangi, a single mother of five who is currently living in emergency accommodation. Rangirangi’s participation and victory are a beacon of hope and resilience, demonstrating how personal circumstances need not define one’s ability to succeed and inspire.

Despite struggling with her living conditions and juggling the responsibilities of motherhood, Rangirangi joined the competition with a vision to improve her children’s future. Her determination and commitment shone through on the night of the pageant, resulting in her dazzling win. Rangirangi also won the Miss Congeniality and the People’s Choice Awards, further cementing her popularity and impact.

Miss Rotorua: A Safe Space for Diversity and Growth

Since its inception, the Miss Rotorua Foundation has been internationally recognized for embracing diversity and beauty across all cultures and ages. It has worked with women from various backgrounds, including those with disabilities, solo mothers, grandmothers, sexual assault survivors, substance users, and those living in poverty.

It’s this inclusive and supportive environment that allowed a 77-year-old fashion enthusiast and a single mother living in emergency accommodation to share the same stage and inspire countless others with their stories. The experiences of Hodge and Rangirangi underscore the Miss Rotorua pageant’s commitment to celebrating beauty in all its forms and its power to transform lives.

Conclusion

In the end, the Miss Rotorua 2023 pageant was more than just a beauty competition. It was a celebration of diversity, resilience, and the human spirit. It brought together women from different walks of life, each with their unique stories and struggles, and offered them a platform to shine, inspire, and grow. The event served as a powerful reminder that beauty is not confined to age or personal circumstances but is instead a reflection of one’s strength, spirit, and capacity to inspire.