Today we’d like to introduce you to Shamone Garcia
Hi Shamone, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Shamone Garcia, Ms. Plus America Elite 2023, is a plus-sized model, business owner, model coach, and distinguished pageant queen. During the pandemic, Shamone began her pageantry journey, which is her passion, while working as a Probation Officer in the Criminal Justice System.
Despite facing society’s stereotypes due to being “different” both physically and mentally, Shamone overcame the odds. She was told that due to her learning disability, she would not graduate high school. However, she not only graduated high school but is also a doctoral student. Shamone has received several awards from The University of South Carolina, including the Blue Star Academia Award from her sorority, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated. She graduated with honors from South University, earning her master’s degree. As a new delegate in the pageant world, she increased her confidence by becoming Ms. Sumter and advancing to become Ms. South Carolina Plus America 2023.
Some interesting facts about Shamone are that she fosters “sisterhood” and teamwork. She enjoys playing video games with her team on the Xbox Gaming System. Her favorite games are Halo and Destiny, which involve coordination with your fire team. Additionally, she loves local dirt track racing. Shamone comes from a line of strong women, including her maternal grandmother, who was an inspiration to her. She dedicated her pageant year to her grandmother in honor of her sudden passing
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Many of us have experienced bullying in high school, which has had a profound impact on our lives. We may have encountered mean girls who constantly put us down, jealous friends who didn’t want us to succeed, and been reminded that we would never be popular. We may have been “fat friends” and felt invisible. My obstacles and challenges include everything above.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am your reigning Ms. Plus America and Plus America Elite. Plus America Elite title is awarded to the highest scoring delegate at the national pageant. The Miss Plus America™ Pageant System, founded in 2002, is an organization devoted to celebrating the essence of the full-figured teen and woman (Sizes 12 or greater) and giving her an avenue in which to pursue recognition for those causes. Throughout my reign, I had the honor of participating in various events and appearances, including interviews, community service events, and speaking engagements. Each of these opportunities was meaningful in its own way, and I am appreciative of each one. I cherish the connections I made and am proud of the professional relationships I developed. One particularly memorable experience was my participation in New York Fashion Week. Walking the runway in two shows was a dream come true, and being part of such a prestigious event was thrilling. It opened up doors for me to establish lasting business connections, and I am grateful for all the fantastic people I had the chance to meet.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
Being part of pageantry has been a life-changing experience for me. It has not only helped me discover my inner beauty and confidence, but it has also allowed me to gain a family that shares the same values and aspirations as me. Through pageantry, I have been able to improve my public speaking skills, develop my own style, and learn how to carry myself with poise and grace. The connections I have made through pageantry have been invaluable. I am grateful for the new family that I have gained, and the support and encouragement they have provided me with. Pageantry has truly changed my life for the better, and I am excited to see where this journey takes me next.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://beuqueen.square.site
- Instagram: 2023 Ms Plus America Elite
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MissColumbiaPlusAmerica2022/
- Other: https://www.missplusamerica.com/
