Pageantry is a local model's pathway to helping create a better world.
Katrina Young, named Miss Foothills by Mrs. Canada Inc. in September, has her sights set on the Miss Canada title, which she hopes will help her help others.
"It's really all about spreading positivity, love and making a difference in the lives of those around me," said Young, a Holy Trinity Academy grad living on an acreage near Millarville.
Young's Miss Foothills title earned her a spot as a finalist in the Miss Canada competition — she'll be competing in the Mrs. Canada Inc. pageant from Nov. 17 to 21 in Edmonton, where she's one of 10 finalists vying for the national title.
"I stand for self love," she said on why she deserves to be named Miss Canada. "I believe in speaking up against injustices, I believe in setting high standards in relationships and inspiring others to embrace their true selves, find their voice."
Young said her participation in the pageant is "an opportunity where I could represent strong, confident women who stand up for what they believe in" and serves as part of her goal to help "create a world where respect, equality and happiness prevail."
In addition to empowering women, Young aims to shed a light on the issues of domestic violence and sexual assault, something with which she has personal experience.
"I guess we're scared to speak out about it," she said. "It is kind of like a uncomfortable topic for me, but it's helping me heal, representing that and representing any and all people who have been sexually assaulted."
Outside of pageantry, Young has been working with her mother to create a support network for victims of sexual assault and domestic violence.
"We're trying to set up a safe haven where we can all come together... we don't necessarily have to talk about it, but just make sure everyone feels seen and heard. [Sexual assault and domestic violence are] very common, and unfortunately people don't talk about it enough," she said.
Katrina's mother Catherine Young is happy to be working with her daughter on the healing circle project while supporting her on her pageantry journey.
"We're just trying to help out as much as we can and also contribute to our healing," she said. "I'm very proud of her and who she's become and what she's standing up for. She's really going after her dreams."
If Young wins the Miss Canada title, she'll be going to Thailand and competing on the global stage in 2025.
Pageantry in the Foothills continues to be in the national spotlight following Okotoks model Arianna Ramsay's coronation as Miss Teenage Canada 2024 in July.
