What an introduction to travel outside North America!  This was culture shock layered on culture shock.  In the first place, it was genuinely an incredible honor to be chosen to represent Canada at the Beauty of the World pageant in China. In reality one of the sentiments that kept me motivated to sustain effort for the five weeks was the constant reminder that this was about Canada more than it was about me.  

We traveled throughout seven different cities and five provinces of China over a five week period.  When I mentioned culture awareness you need to appreciate the fact that we traveled as a group of fifty girls representing 50 distinct cultures.  It was the blending of languages, preferences, personalities that needed to come together to ensure we had a successful pageant with the eyes of the world on us.   

We saw so many things and experienced so many situations while on this trip that I have grown enormously for the better. I have become more independent and confident to meet challenges of all types.  

The overwhelming realization is just how blessed and fortunate we are to live in such a wonderful country as Canada.  Travel in some of the remote regions of China where daily life of those less fortunate opened my eyes to a different reality and made me so incredibly grateful for my family and country. At the end of the day, although I did not win I am proud to say I am a Canadian and even prouder to have been granted the opportunity to represent my country!  

Adding a personal note of thanks here, the Miss Teen/Miss Canada organization more than fulfilled its mission by providing me this unforgettable opportunity.  I have grown so much and am thrilled to be a small part of this special organization.  

In life there are always going to be obstacles that will come to greet you.  But it is all about perseverance, attitude and prayer in overcoming that makes you stronger.

Below are some photos of the event, more are on our MySpace page.