We asked our four queens what advice they could share with young girls who aspire to be like them about the importance of a good education.
Rabiya Mateo: For all the aspiring beauty queens, I really campaign that you finish your studies first because beauty pageants will always be there. There are even some that don’t have an age limit. But [getting a good] education gives you the edge, the wisdom, the experience you need to relate to other people. It’s not just having the perfect physique, but being able to relate, to influence, to really speak before a big group.
Bea Luigi Gomez: I finished my studies after placing in the Top 5 at the Miss Universe pageant. Despite my previous and current job experiences, I still pursued my bachelor’s degree because even if we learn things through life experiences, it is better to encounter situations in the future … equipped with quality education. Never take for granted the value of education because it is one of the ingredients of success—whether it’s a vocational course or a bachelor’s degree. An investment in knowledge indeed does pay the best interest.
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Celeste Cortesi: Do not take your education for granted because … it can take you to so many places. It can bring you a lot of life lessons that you can definitely apply in your daily life, even and especially when you become an adult and you find your dream job.
Cindy Obenieta: Let me underscore the profound significance of education. School is not only a pathway to academic achievement but a journey that equips you with the tools to shape your ultimate dreams. It’s a place where curiosity meets knowledge, and challenges become stepping stones to growth. Embrace the opportunities to learn for education unlocks doors to celestial possibilities. It nurtures resilience, refines your voice, and empowers you to carve your unique path. Remember, your education is a beacon guiding you toward the person you aspire to be, and every lesson learned is a building block for the future you envision. So, young dreamers, cherish your education—it is the key to unlocking the extraordinary potential within you. — Raoul J. Chee Kee