World Class Beauty Queens Magazine would like to welcome amazing Queen Aliya L. Frederick Ms. California Regency International 2019-2020.
Full name: Aliya L. Frederick
Title/Year: Ms. California Regency International 2019-2020
Pageant System: Regency International Organization
Age: That’s for me to know ;) 30+
Zodiac sign: Libra
Hobbies: Dance and choreography, weekend trips, community service, spoiling my dogs, watching crime shows on TV, working out
Platform: Diversity and Inclusivity in STEM disciplines and medicine, mentoring, volunteerism
Years competed: 1
Countries visited: Mexico, Canada, Bahamas, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, England, Scotland, France, Spain, Amsterdam, Italy
Likes: Things that smell good, getting dressed up, helping others, finding a good deal when shopping, the feeling of accomplishment, crossing things off my “to do” lists, reaching goals, acts of kindness, laughing and enjoying life
Dislikes: clutter, laziness, cigarette smoke, big egos, bullies, when the toilet paper is put on the roll the wrong way, getting unsweet tea when I’m expecting sweet tea
Status: In a long term relationship
World Class Beauty Queens: Please tell us about yourself.
I currently live in San Diego, California where I have lived for the last 5 years since I moved to California from Nashville, Tennessee. I am originally from Cheltenham Pennsylvania, a suburb of Philadelphia. I attended the University of Maryland, Baltimore County for my undergraduate studies in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology as well as Economics. There, I was involved in the Meyerhoff and MARC U STAR scholarship programs which are designed to encourage minority participation in STEM disciplines. I then completed my PhD in the Department of Neurosciences and a medical degree at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, TN. I moved to San Diego to complete my residency training in Child Neurology at the University of California San Diego and Rady Children’s Hospital. In my last year, I have served as Co-Chief Resident for the program. In July I will be starting a Clinical Neurophysiology fellowship which I will be integrating with my interests in neuromodulation and headache medicine. Personally, I love to enjoy life and I have been told that I have a very distinctive laugh. I was a professional dancer/cheerleader for football and basketball teams in the past which was a lot of fun and great experiences. I am the mother to an amazing daughter who makes me proud every day. She is very smart and takes her academics very seriously. She is in the 8th grade and has a 4.0 GPA. She has been on the Honor Roll for as long as I can remember and has won various academic awards. She also has various talents including playing the baritone, art, creative writing, musical theater and acting. She was accepted to the San Diego School of Creative and Performing Arts for high school so she will be starting there next year with a major in Theatre. She’s beautiful on the outside and on the inside and has the kindest heart. She’s always willing to help anyone in need and participates in a variety of community and volunteer activities. I could go on all day but I’ll stop there.
World Class Beauty Queens: What does women Empowerment mean to you?
Empowerment means being bold, strong and courageous enough to follow your dreams or goals no matter what obstacles might lie in your way. In particular, when you find yourself in a unique situation where no one else has previously done what you want to do, it’s that “I can do it” attitude and mindset that keeps you moving forward. Just knowing in your heart that you can do anything that you put your mind and energy toward accomplishing even if others doubt your ability to be successful. Empowerment means making your own path and speaking your own truth unapologetically. The feeling of empowerment can be all encompassing and surprisingly contagious. Once one woman feels empowered she can’t help but radiate that sense to those around her and help to lift others up and guide them in their own path of empowerment. Empowered women empower others.
World Class Beauty Queens: Tell us about your pageant history.
Well there’s not much to tell. I’m just getting started! In April 2019 I represented Ms. San Diego in the California Regency International pageant where I took home the state title of Ms. California Regency International. I then had the opportunity to represent my state at the International Pageant alongside women from all over the world. I’ve got one year under my belt and we will see what’s next.
World Class Beauty Queens: What inspired you to do your first pageant?
I was inspired to participate in a pageant by my daughter. She had been in a few local pageants when she was much younger and we lived in Tennessee but hadn’t participated in anything recently. Actually before we left Tennessee we were interested in doing a “mommy and me” pageant but couldn’t find anything that fit our timeline. So fast forward five years, we started talking about pageants one day and she told me that I should participate in a pageant. Feeling motivated, I searched online for pageants that welcomed women older than 30 and women with children and that’s how I came across the Regency International Organization. It was one of the last days to sign up when I entered but I was excited when I finally made that commitment. The outfit that I wore for fun fashion had been sitting in my closet for months with the tags still on it since I bought it on sale and never had anywhere to wear it. I ordered a dress on Amazon for evening wear (prime shipping of course) and I was ready to go.
World Class Beauty Queens: Why did you choose to compete for your current title? I competed for this particular title because it was open to women older than 30 years old. I’m really excited to see more Ms./Mrs. categories being incorporated into pageant systems which for a long time have not been open for women beyond their 20’s or those with families. Women eligible for the Ms./Mrs. categories are incredible role models and are exactly the type of titleholders that pageant systems should be recognizing and looking to have as ambassadors. Not only are we continuing to make tremendous contributions to our communities but we are also professional women who have established ourselves in our chosen careers and continue to set new goals to reach. I personally think that inclusive pageantry benefits everyone. Beauty exists throughout a woman's lifespan and I think it is important to show that today’s queens are not just beautiful women but accomplished women of substance.
World Class Beauty Queens: To those unfamiliar with your pageant system please tell us what is it about?
Sure! The Regency International Organization was created by the International Director Terri Dingle. The competitions don’t just focus on beauty, but also allows each woman and young girl the opportunity to grow and advance their personal and career goals, while acting as role models in their community through volunteerism and service. There are several states that hold a state pageant to select titleholders to participate in the international pageant held each year in Las Vegas, NV. For states that do not have a state pageant, there is the opportunity to represent the state as an At-Large delegate. There are also several international pageants that feed into the Regency system and send their delegates to the Regency International pageant each year. The focus on community service and other contributions rather than beauty alone was actually one of the main things that really drew me toward participating in the Regency system over some other systems out there.
World Class Beauty Queens: What are you being judged on during the competition?
There are four categories that are scored in the Regency International pageant system that each account for 25% of the overall score. For the photogenic competition, each participant submits a photo that is judged on photogenic appeal, quality of the photo, facial beauty, personality and grooming. During the interview portion of the competition, each participant has the opportunity to meet individually with a panel of judges. The participants are able to talk about themselves as well as answer questions on a variety of topics. During this time the judges get to know the participant more personally. The judges are looking for articulation, ease of conversation and confidence. The on-stage portions of the competition includes Fashion Wear and Evening Gown. For the Fashion Wear competition the participant gets to walk the runway in an outfit that reflects her own personal style and personality. The Evening Gown competition is last and gives the participant the opportunity to show her style, poise, elegance and confidence in a beautiful gown of her choosing. For the 2020 competition, there will also be optional categories for competition including Talent, Swimwear (for the Teen and up categories), Spokesmodel, Model Portfolio and Everyday Wear.
World Class Beauty Queens: Tell us about your experience during the competition.
I had such an amazing time during the state pageant and I will always hold those memories close. The 2019 pageant was the first time there was a California pageant for the Regency International Pageant Organization and our local pageant director Christy-Anne Lopez did not disappoint. It was well organized and everyone was so supportive and positive which allowed everyone to have fun and enjoy the experience. Having not had prior pageant experience, I did not have any particular expectations going into the pageant and I went into it all with an open mind. All I knew was that I was looking forward to getting on stage, being in front of a crowd and entertaining again. I drove up to the pageant location (LA area) the morning of the pageant and jumped right into a photoshoot followed by my interview. I must say it was nerve-wracking going into the interview because you just never know what to expect but I felt great when it was over. It was great bonding with the other ladies during the day - while we were waiting for interviews, during rehearsal and in the dressing rooms getting ready for the stage portion of the pageant. I didn’t know anyone when I got there but I left with several new friends and sister queens. Going to internationals was also a lot of fun and I have fond memories of preparing with my California sister queens and meeting others from around the world. My family was there and it was nice having their support throughout the entire process.
World Class Beauty Queens: Tell us about your platform or what cause do you volunteer for.
I am personally very committed to advocating for and doing what I can to increase diversity and inclusivity in STEM disciplines and medicine. I want young girls of all races, ethnicities and backgrounds to know that they can do anything with their lives with dedication and hard work. It encourages me everytime I hear a parent tell me that their daughter wants to be a physician like me when she grows up or that she is excited that her doctor looks like her which is a new experience. I remember an encounter when I was in medical school where I was riding an elevator in my white coat and an older African American woman got into the elevator with me. Before she exited the elevator she smiled and told me she was proud of me. I have never forgotten that woman or the many others before me who have made it possible for me to have the opportunities I have today. I haven't done anything alone and it goes without saying that I stand on the shoulders of giants.
Mentoring has been a very important aspect of my life and it has been instrumental in getting me to where I am today. While we make our own way forward, we always need to remember to reach back and bring others along with us. Regarding my volunteer activities, I have volunteered for a variety of organizations and community events however there are a few that I have been involved with fairly regularly. The San Diego Food Bank and Feeding San Diego are both great organizations that do amazing work providing food and resources for those at risk of food insecurity in San Diego and the surrounding communities. The San Diego Rescue Mission and Father Joe’s Village are dedicated to tackling homelessness which is one of the major problems that faces San Diego today. These organizations help provide meals, shelter and other resources for those experiencing homelesness and helps them transition to lives with greater stability. And lastly I would like to mention the Princess Project which is a non-profit organization that promotes self-confidence and individual beauty by providing free prom or special occasion dresses to high school teens who could not otherwise afford a dress.
World Class Beauty Queens: What appearances have you done with your title?
Oh Boy, I have definitely tried to make it a priority for me to get out in the community during my reign as Ms. California Regency International. I think it has been a pretty successful year and I was honored with a Gold level Volunteer Award and Title Visibility Award at the international pageant after holding my title for 3 months. The vast majority of my appearances have been through volunteering at various events. Other appearances I have done include the San Diego County Fair at Del Mar Fairgrounds for the July 4th celebration, the San Diego Rock and Roll Marathon (where I also volunteered on the medical response team), the California State Games, Our Place wellness program at The Arc San Diego, Beach Cleanups, the Ronald McDonald House, Sleepless San Diego, Arbor Day Santee, the U.S. Sand Sculpting Challenge, the Barona Pow Pow, A Short Walk Home (Father Joe’s Village), Padres Pre-Game, the Miss San Diego and San Diego Outstanding Teen pageant, the San Diego Veteran’s Day parade, the Mother Goose parade, the Alpine Christmas Parade of Lights and Snow Festival, the Pacific Beach Holiday Parade, Breakfast with Santa in Tierrasanta, the San Diego Santa Run, Miles for Migraine Walk/Run, Cinderella’s Attic Viva Las Vegas throwback to prom, Cruse 4 Kids Teddy Ball, the Princess Project Sadie Hawkins Dance, the Brain Health Fair, the San Diego Blood Bank, the Warrior Foundation Deck the Halls event and I was also featured in an article in my local newspaper the Tierrasanta Times.
World Class Beauty Queens: What are some of your achievements?
Pageant related I was honored with a Gold level Volunteer Award and Title Visibility Award at the international pageant after holding my title for 3 months. I have received a variety of academic and professional awards including scholarships, travel awards, research grants, research awards and induction in honor societies. In 2015, I was recognized by Nashville Black 40 under 40.
World Class Beauty Queens: What makes you stand out from all those other beautiful girls?
I think my life experiences make me stand out from other people. I have had a different path to pageantry than most and getting started at a later age gives me a different perspective. I think some of the same personality traits that have allowed me to be successful professionally are the same traits that make for a successful queen.
World Class Beauty Queens: Tell us about the moment your name was called out as the winner. Wow! I was very excited and very surprised at the same time. I didn’t go into the pageant really thinking about winning or losing, I just wanted to get out there and have fun on stage. It was very rewarding to feel like I gave it my best and left it all on the stage and have others recognize that as well. Everyone always talks about that crowning moment and it was definitely a moment that I will treasure forever.
World Class Beauty Queens: What does it mean to you to be a Beauty Queen?
I don’t consider myself to be a beauty queen per se, I think that puts more emphasis on the outward appearance instead of the other traits that are more valuable. I think being a queen puts you in an important role in a position to have a platform upon which you can engage others and interact in ways that might not have been possible otherwise.
World Class Beauty Queens: How did competing in pageants helped your life?
Preparing for the pageant definitely gave me the opportunity to gain more insight into myself, particularly when preparing for the interview and thinking about how experiences have shaped my life. I also found that I was motivated to start eating healthier and exercising regularly which is something I have wanted to get back to for a while but found it difficult to get started.
World Class Beauty Queens: How did pageants helped your self esteem and body image?
Inclusive pageantry systems like the Regency International Organization remind us that today’s queen doesn’t have to conform to a specific look and that beauty is everywhere - in all shapes and sizes. Every girl and woman should feel embraced, celebrated and know that she is valued regardless of the color of her skin or the shape of her body. Who doesn’t feel amazing when they have the opportunity to get all dressed up and rock the runway.
World Class Beauty Queens: You are an inspiration to all the girls out there. How does it feel?
It is truly an honor and you never know what impact you might have on someone’s life when you meet them. That’s why it is so important to show that there is not just one type of pageant queen and that there are many other factors that go into being a queen other than just a pretty face. Queens can inspire others to get active in their communities, help others and make a difference.
World Class Beauty Queens: What is your on stage strategy to win the judges over?
I didn’t have any particular strategy. I just went out there and tried to show the best and most authentic version of myself possible and give a sense of my personality.
World Class Beauty Queens: How did you prepare for your competition?
I prepared for the interview by running through some practice questions and trying to feel comfortable answering a variety of questions. For the onstage portion of the competition I definitely had to practice walking in those high high pageant heels! I’m still working on feeling comfortable doing a twirl! Maybe someday.
World Class Beauty Queens: What are your tips for learning better pageant walk?
I think the best thing you can do is just practice. Everyone is going to have a different walk so I think what is important is to make sure that you project that you feel comfortable and confident when you hit the stage.
World Class Beauty Queens: What are your tips for choosing right pageant dress
I went dress shopping with my family and we had a lot of fun picking out dresses. I went in thinking that I wanted something strapless and fitted to my body. We picked out dresses in a variety of styles and colors. I tried on a handful of those dresses and we ultimately decided on the dress that I wore for internationals. The dress fit my body like a glove and I felt so beautiful in that dress. I think the right dress should be appropriate for your age, fit your personality and make you feel like a queen.
World Class Beauty Queens: What are your tips for winning interview?
Take a deep breath. Stand or sit up straight. Make good eye contact. Be yourself. Be honest. Know some talking points - especially what you have previously written in your biography or information sheets submitted to the judges. Don’t say “um” or “like” - just take a pause and then answer the question when you are ready. Have a great interview!
World Class Beauty Queens: What is one mistake that you've done during competing you wish you could redo and fix it? I think if there is something I could do differently during internationals it would be to just live in the moment even more, have even more fun and not worry about things as much. Otherwise I don’t think there is too much I would do differently and I was proud of myself, especially being so new to pageantry. I think people have to remember that sometimes you win and sometimes you don’t and it's not necessarily a reflection of something you did wrong or a mistake you made. At the end of the day all you can do is continue to strive to be the best version of you possible.
World Class Beauty Queens: What other mistakes are made by girls during the contest?
This is a hard question. I don’t know that there are any particular mistakes that I have seen people make. All the ladies at the state pageant were amazing. We all got along great and became friends and supported each other during the pageant. Obviously everyone is on their own journey and will do things differently. All you can do is give it your all. You never know exactly what the judges are looking for at any given time. Anyone could have been the winner.
World Class Beauty Queens: Any modeling or acting experience?
No acting or modeling for me.
World Class Beauty Queens: What are your plans for 2020 as a Queen?
In May 2020, I will be crowning my successor as the next Ms. California Regency International. What’s next in my pageant journey is yet to be determined. My daughter has some pageant plans for herself for this year so I will definitely be helping with her pageant journey.
World Class Beauty Queens: What kind of legacy do you want to leave behind?
You can remember me as the woman, mom, physician, advocate, mentee, mentor and queen who remains dedicated to serving and helping others not only through my chosen profession but also in my personal life, community and through my service. A queen who embraces the idea of being the change she wants to see in the world and who does it all with a smile on her face and a giggle.
International Director: Terry Dingle
CA State Director: Christy-Anne Lopez
Pageant website: www.RegencyInternational.com
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine would like to say thank you for this amazing interview!
Aliya L. Frederick Ms. California Regency International 2019-2020, World Class Beauty Queens Magazine, Photographer: Bobby Chi Photography, Wardrobe: Noell, Los Angeles
Interview by Derek Tokarzewski Owner/Editor in Chief Mr United Nations 2018 Platform: Women Empowerment Ambassador to International Foundation for Orphans iffocares.org
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