Fourteen-year-old Wanstead resident Layla Badowska reflects on her participation in the recent Miss Junior Teen GB pageant, and thanks her supportive family and local businesses
Miss Junior Teen GB was definitely one of the greatest experiences of my life and I can’t wait to share my journey with others! This pageant distinguishes itself from a traditional beauty pageant as it promotes a celebration of teenagers and their life achievements.
My initial application was sent in by my mum without me knowing, and the empowering journey of self-confidence evolved after!
I managed to raise quite a large amount of money for the charity Together for Short Lives during the Covid pandemic. I was also able to come forward with my own partial sponsorship with funds generated through my Instagram page offering beauty bundles (@laylas_beautybundle) and with cash saved up from tutoring. I was also sponsored by Mortgage Choice Services in South Woodford.
My family and I drove over 250 miles to Lancashire to the famous seaside town of Blackpool after I landed a spot in the grand final at The Globe Theatre. We stayed in the amazing Village Hotel resort.
I still feel the thrill of making it to the finals. It was an unforgettable and life-changing experience that helped me explore my inner beauty by participating in several of the fun challenges, such as a pyjama party with previous winners and different workshops. I made many new friends.
I would like to give special thanks to local businesses such as G-Fashion for my gorgeous dresses, Polished by Jo for amazing nail care and Lillies of Wanstead for supplying a beautiful fresh bouquet that lasted a staggering three days.
Most of all, I wish to encourage all girls to discover how great participation in a similar pageant can be. Not only will it change your own life but it could also be life-changing for others through charity work.
My next project for Christmas will be linked to my mum’s fundraising campaign for homeless people on Wanstead High Street and a Christmas gifts project for local people in need.
Do get in touch with me if you would like to fulfil your own beauty pageant dream, or wish to get some unique tips on how to make the most of this amazing experience.
Finally, I would like to thank my family for supporting me throughout this whole journey. My brother Liyan especially, as he missed a couple of his football training sessions, and my mum for devoting all her spare time to helping me become a lot more confident.
For more information on Miss Junior Teen GB, visit wnstd.com/missteengb. For more information on Layla’s participation in the competition, visit wnstd.com/layla
