World Class Beauty Queens Magazine would like to welcome amazing Queen Mariel Angela O. Prion Miss Teen Glam International 2020.
Full name: Mariel Angela O. Prion
Title/Year: Miss Teen Glam International 2020, Miss Teen Glam Philippines 2019
Pageant System: Little and Teen Glam
Age: 19
Zodiac sign: Aquarius
Hobbies: Singing, painting, drawing, playing the flute, volunteering, watching historical and nature documentaries, writing poetry and reading books
Platform: Climate Action and Zero Waste Advocate
Years competed: 2016, 2018, and 2019
Countries visited: Thailand, Singapore, United States of America, China, Hongkong, Japan, England, Scotland, New Zealand, and Australia
Likes: Travel to different places, learn new cultures and traditions, go on roadtrips, play volleyball, swim at beaches, ride ziplines, explore nature parks, solve mystery games and puzzles, drink chai latte, and taste sweet pastries like cinnamon buns
Dislikes: Widespread prevalence of misinformation around the internet
Status: Single World Class Beauty Queens: Please tell us about yourself.
Growing up in a mountainous region of Rizal, I naturally developed a deep appreciation for the environment. It became my moral compass to join various youth-led organizations nationwide such as Young Earth Scientists’ Society and participate in campaigns with Greenpeace Philippines. I enjoy being involved in clean-ups and charity works. As a current behavioral sciences student, I hope to better understand society and find ways to connect positive human action with environmental protection. I advocate for climate action and the promotion of zero waste management. As of today, I am still an active member of the organizations I am involved with and recently became a Philippine Ambassador for Uyolo. It is an international organization based in Italy that aims to promote the Sustainable Development Goals through a mobile app and global ambassadors. My dream is to empower the youth and become an inspiration to others by becoming a motivational speaker.
World Class Beauty Queens: What does women Empowerment mean to you?
I believe that women empowerment is more than just uplifting the status of one gender. It is about the promotion of equality among all genders and to be given the same opportunities in society. Empowering women to make life-decisions is a way to balance development. This is to ensure that all of us, regardless of status, will have a fair and a better way of life. World Class Beauty Queens: Tell us about your pageant history.
My dream of becoming a beauty queen started at a young age of 4. At home, I’d pretend the living room was the stage and my parents cheered as if they were the audience. It didn’t take long before I participated in school pageants like Mr. and Ms. Ethnic Month 2009, Little Miss English 2010 and Ms. Intramurals 2011. After 5 years, I joined my first national pageant, Mr. and Ms. Teen Ambassadors of the Earth Philippines 2016; hoping to utilize it as a platform to share my passion in taking good care of our environment. I made it as a Top 10 finalist out of more than 40 candidates. During the summer after my senior high graduation, I won as Miss Teen Glam Philippines 2019. This gave me the opportunity to represent my country in an international pageant. So I underwent a series of extreme training under Rocky Solero in preparation for the competition. Last January 10, I was able to bring home the crown as the first Filipina titleholder of Miss Teen Glam International.
World Class Beauty Queens: What inspired you to do your first pageant?
I was only 8 years old during my first pageant. At that time, my only intentions were to make my parents happy and do my best to represent my section or class.
World Class Beauty Queens: Why did you choose to compete for your current title?
Pageants give us a wider platform to share our advocacies and passions close to our heart. Little and Teen Glam empowers the youth from all ages and it proves my belief that no one is
too young to make a difference. The mission and purpose of pageantry inspired me to be a part of it. Not only can I showcase the beauty of my country, but also the beauty of what lies within ourselves.
World Class Beauty Queens: To those unfamiliar with your pageant system please tell us what is it about?
Little and Teen Glam is a festival pageant that celebrates diversity and understanding. It showcases beauty, talent, fashion, arts and culture. This competition gives all candidates an opportunity to represent its place of origin equally regardless of its culture, race, religion and status.
World Class Beauty Queens: What are you being judged on during the competition?
We are judged based on the following criteria: opening introduction and casual interview, national costume, festival wear, evening gown segment, and question and answer portion.
World Class Beauty Queens: Tell us about your experience during the competition.
Looking back at that moment, it was heartwarming and fulfilling to represent the Philippines. It is actually my first time to experience the pressure of carrying the name of where you are from. But I always told myself to look for the good in everything and pray in times of doubt. After all, I waited for almost 2 decades to finally wear a sash that says “Philippines”. During coronation night, I saw my entire family and friends supporting me with their loudest cheers. It gave me the strength and confidence for the competition. At the end of the day, pageantry is never about you alone, it is about the people and the cause you are doing this for.
World Class Beauty Queens: Tell us about your platform or what cause do you volunteer for.
My advocacy focuses on 2 main topics, climate action and the promotion of zero waste management. It is a well known fact that we only have less than 10 years left to save our planet from irreversible damage caused by climate change rooted in negative human actions. This will impact every need to live and can have a series of consequences that will also affect the future generations. Rising temperatures disrupt natural systems, leading to more extreme weather events alongside devastating effects towards the health and well-being of humans.
In the promotion of proper Zero Waste Management, it is an approach that encourages the community to apply the 7Rs (Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Repair, Repurpose, Recycle, and Rethink) and set a new goal for how we live in the world. It aims to reduce what we trash in landfills and live a sustainable lifestyle through the use of eco-friendly alternatives. Through this, we’ll be able to inspire other people to do their part in minimizing plastic consumption for the betterment of our environment.
To further raise awareness and take action for my causes, I joined as one of the voices for the #BetterNormal Campaign by Greenpeace Philippines. It’s a nationwide initiative to promote a sustainable and a more eco-friendly lifestyle right after the pandemic. This is a way of saying that we can form a better tomorrow for all through collective action and participation. World Class Beauty Queens: What appearances have you done with your title?
Appearances as Miss Teen Glam Philippines 2019:
Guest Appearance at Rue De Danse Dance Recital
Charity Work at Blue Whale Mission of Our Lady at Binangonan, Rizal
Courtesy Visit at my hometown in Libon, Albay for one week from July 20-26, 2019
Courtesy Call at the mayor’s office of Libon
Homecoming Walk during the coronation night of Mr. and Ms. Libon 2019
Courtesy visit at my alma mater, San Beda University-Rizal
Special Appearance at Philippine Fashion Preview 2019
Guest judge last September at Ms. Glamour Look Philippines 2019
Guest Appearance at Mrs. Glamour Look of the Year International 2019 Preliminaries and Coronation Night
Guest judge at Mr. and Ms. Anthonian 2019
Media Presscon and Interview with Pageant Bloggers
Send-Off Party for Internationals with Miss Beauty Universe Philippines
Appearances as Miss Teen Glam International 2020:
Guest Appearance at the Launch of Ginoo at Mutya ng HAMAKA 2020
TV Interview at Usaping Bayan with David Ressler, Mister Teen Glam International 2020
Radio Guesting last January 18 at Generation K with David Ressler and Kim Gwanwoo
Victory Party with Management and Co-Winners
Victory Party and Thanksgiving Speech with Family and Friends
Radio Interview at Radyo Bazaar
Charity Work and Feeding Program at Transfiguration of Christ Parish
Special guest at Ginoo at Mutya ng HAMAKA Coronation Night
Guest judge at Mr. and Ms. Teen Tourism Cardona 2020
Head judge for the search of Ambassador and Ambassadress of CHI
Live Chat with netizens at Pageant Talk
Q&A Challenge and Interview at Ganap TV Online
7 Live Chats and Talks at Primo Modelo TV from April-August
Instagram Live Talk with River Cleanup from Belgium
Guest Speaker at Greenpeace Philippines’ “Classrooms for Future”
Featured advocate at “Classrooms for Future” video campaign
Invited as a speaker for “Online Kapihan and Kamustahan” under Youth Advocates for the Philippines Region 4-A
World Class Beauty Queens: What are some of your achievements?
I believe that an achievement is not only something that relates to personal gain such as awards and recognitions but it also refers to how much you have changed the lives of others. Being able to participate in charity works throughout my reign will always be counted as some of my major achievements as a beauty queen. It was also surprising to receive messages from people around the world like Japan, Belgium, Germany, Netherlands, Pakistan, Indonesia, Nepal, Thailand, and the USA. They would tell me that they were inspired by my advocacy and life story. As a person, I didn’t realize I have this much impact and to know I was able to empower them, it made everything even more fulfilling since this was my main goal as to why I entered pageantry. With this, I consider these moments to be an achievement because you are able to contribute to someone else’s progress and show new meaning in life.
World Class Beauty Queens: What makes you stand out from all those other beautiful girls?
Everyone is equally beautiful and deserving. I do not compare myself with anyone in any way and the only thing that I focused on was to be better than my past self. To me, it’s not about standing out but rather showing the world the woman you can be and what you can do regardless of the pageant’s outcome. Throughout the journey, I was able to do so by just being myself.
World Class Beauty Queens: Tell us about the moment your name was called out as the winner.
Before the emcee called out the winner, I was already calm and at ease with myself knowing I did all that I could to represent the Philippines. Seconds before the announcement, I was praying to God to bless me with a grateful heart to accept whatever result comes out . When the emcee finally said the name of my country and everyone in my family screamed, feelings of joy and shock quickly rushed through me. As I felt the weight of the crown on my head, it was then I realized the amount of responsibilities I have to carry during my reign as Miss Teen Glam International 2020.
World Class Beauty Queens: What does it mean to you to be a Beauty Queen?
Being a beauty queen is more than just the title and crown itself. It’s all about going beyond it by being a woman of substance and has a platform to promote. She is the embodiment of inspiration by being a good role model among society and inspires all walks of age through the kindness of her heart. Most importantly, a beauty queen is always a woman with a purpose to fulfill.
World Class Beauty Queens: How did competing in pageants helped your life?
Underneath all the rhinestones and glamour, is a story of growth and transformation. Through pageantry, I was able to discover more about myself. It lets you realize that you are capable of making a much bigger impact in society than you ever thought possible and that it inspires you to do and be more to exceed even your own expectations and break all boundaries. The most impactful moment was the immense growth that came from the preparation process. I learned how to further take good care of myself, style my hair, do my own make-up, practice proper manners, learn how to manage time and resources, and so much more. This also paved the way for me to value dedication and consistency; to fully commit to something bigger than my own intentions. Along the way I was already learning a lot of valuable life lessons that I could bring with me even after my pageant career.
World Class Beauty Queens: How did pageants help your self-esteem and body image?
Several years ago, I was always the shy little girl you would see at the corner of a room and would avoid getting called in class. I will only communicate if it is absolutely necessary. To tell the truth, I have missed a lot of opportunities because of my shyness. During the first two years in high school, I experienced bullying and it negatively affected my self-esteem and confidence. It was extremely difficult for me to even look at the mirror. Thanks to modeling and pageantry, everything got better and I regained my strength and developed a more positive outlook in life and towards myself. Little and Teen Glam was a proving milestone that taught me a valuable lesson that you are never defined by your past and what other people say about you. Your journey may be a roller-coaster of good and bad but it will always lead you to your destination. Now, I can stare at my own reflection and be grateful for who and what I am. Pageantry showed me how to value my own worth and grow to become the woman that I am today.
World Class Beauty Queens: You are an inspiration to all the girls out there. How does it feel?
Sharing my life story and experiences beyond the crown gave life a whole new meaning. I felt my entire being has a higher calling and this is no longer just about accomplishing whatever goal you set out to attain. Now, it’s about helping and guiding everyone else to prosper through my story. 3 months ago I got invited as a speaker in an online youth forum and was tasked to share my advocacy journey. After the event, I received a lot of feedback that they mentioned that they were inspired by my words and they got to appreciate their dreams even more. It was heartwarming and you get to watch them create their best life.
World Class Beauty Queens: What is your on stage strategy to win the judges over?
For me, there is no exact strategy in doing so because whenever I am onstage, I never thought of how to win the judges over but rather what can I do to showcase my country in every presentation. At the end, it all comes down to confidence and purpose. When you are really passionate in what you are doing, it will reflect on your performance and everyone will see that.
World Class Beauty Queens: How did you prepare for your competition?
As early as July or at least a few months after I got crowned as a national titleholder, I already started my training for the internationals. It’s important to have a planner and with it, I wrote a list of what to accomplish per week that may help me in the competition. It could either be a catwalk practice or dedicate a few hours of studying. I also underwent intense pageant training with my mentor, Coach Rocky Solero, once or twice a week that would last for around 3-4 hours depending on our availability.
World Class Beauty Queens: What are your tips for learning a better pageant walk?
The most common and helpful tip is to practice. There are no shortcuts in developing your signature walk. You really have to go through every step and learn from your mistakes. Do not give up and establish a strong mindset that you can overcome all obstacles to reach your fullest potential.
World Class Beauty Queens: What are your tips for choosing the right pageant dress?
In choosing the right pageant dress, you must learn how to acknowledge the recommendations and thoughts of other people. Consult with your designer, handler or director, stylist, and even your parents. Listen to what they have to say and from it, decide on what you believe fits you the most.
World Class Beauty Queens: What are your tips for winning an interview?
Authenticity goes a long way. In an interview, don’t aim your answers to be perfect, it just needs to be real. Let the panelists and audience see you through your words. Express yourself in the best way you can and avoid overthinking. Just relax and believe in yourself.
World Class Beauty Queens: What is one mistake that you've made while competing you wish you could redo and fix it?
I have made several mistakes throughout the competition like waking up past my alarm, messing up my make-up look, and even forgetting to bring with me our official pageant shirt for a mall show. However, despite all those mishaps, I do not wish to redo any of it. I consider every moment as a learning experience and view it as a guide in helping me become a better version of myself.
World Class Beauty Queens: What other mistakes are made by girls during the contest?
For the past years, I have witnessed some people who joined a pageant without any advocacy at all. Having a platform is very important. It must be the center and main reason why you entered the industry and it should not only be focused on physical appearance. Keep in mind that each pageant system is different that also includes their mission. So how will you join a competition without knowing what it truly stands for and why you are there.
World Class Beauty Queens: Any modeling or acting experience?
At the age of 13, I enrolled for a basic modeling workshop at FAD Events Management and was able to walk for 2 fashion shows in one casting. Some years went by and I came across Primo Modelo Artist Model Academy. They set up weekend training and personality development classes that further enhanced my runway and photoshoot skills. I also had the opportunity to walk for 7 known Filipino designers at Philippine Fashion Preview 2019.
World Class Beauty Queens: What are your plans for 2020 as a Queen?
The breakout of an unexpected pandemic has caused many of my supposed in-person activities to be postponed. However, that did not prevent me from fulfilling my duties and responsibilities. I thought of alternative ways to continue my reign through online engagements such as live interviews and participation in various environmental campaigns. Numerous opportunities opened when I became a global ambassador for Uyolo. It is an international organization based in Milan, Italy. Uyolo is a purpose-led initiative with a goal of raising awareness on the global challenges we face today by highlighting the 17 Sustainable Development Goals. It also promotes partner non-profit organizations or NGOs through the Uyolo app; a mobile application available on Google Play and Apple Store.
Last May, I was appointed as the Environment Sector Head of Young Earth Scientists’ Society (YESS). It is a youth-led organization based in the Philippines that aims to promote the appreciation of Earth Science and has three main foundations: Geology, Environment, and Meteorology. It aims to instill the role of science in society and raise environmental awareness through activities that are science-based and people-centered. As a reigning queen and member of the organization, I am still able to share my advocacy to the community through leadership and empowering the members.
So far, everything is going well and I have activities to do every month despite being mostly indoors. My plan is to keep doing what I do as an ambassador and spokesperson of my cause. Our actions may be limited but it can be maximized. If you’re given this kind of opportunity, it’s a once in a lifetime. After one year, you’ll pass on the crown. So, while the title is yours, continue and remain dedicated in reaching out to people.
World Class Beauty Queens: What kind of legacy do you want to leave behind?
I want to be remembered as a determined Filipina beauty queen that has a will that cannot be broken. I hope to show to everyone that age doesn’t matter in making a difference in this world. Through my journey, I want everyone to see the beauty in every struggle and how a positive mindset can turn any situation around. As a woman of purpose, I aim to push beyond boundaries and set new standards of what it truly means to be the bearer of a crown.
International Director: Elle Guilaran
National and Local Director: Miya Gusi
Pageant website: www.facebook.com/GlamPageantOrg
Photographer: Reanne Hontiveros of Great Image
Hair stylist: Lyra Semitara
Fashion Designer: Jose Nepomuceno
Heels: Bragais Shoes
Accessories: SM Accessories (What Women Want)
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine would like to say thank you for this amazing interview.
Mariel Angela O. Prion Miss Teen Glam International 2020, World Class Beauty Queens Magazine, Photographer: Reanne Hontiveros of Great Image Hair stylist: Lyra Semitara Fashion Designer: Jose Nepomuceno Heels: Bragais Shoes Accessories: SM Accessories (What Women Want)
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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