For the pageant, each delegate must choose a platform that they support. It can be a charity or something close to their heart that they believe in. For me, my platform had to be something that I'm very passionate about and that I have a connection to.

At the age of 8, I began struggling with my weight. I didn't think much of being larger until the bullying set in, and clothes were impossible to buy unless from the ladies section. I was happy go lucky and carefree of what anyone thought until the harsh comments from the kids at school took its toll on me. At my highest weight was when I was 14 years old, with a height of 5’2 I weighed 165 pounds. I can recall so many mean things people said to me. The people probably wouldn’t even remember it today but the statements made scar a person forever. I remember looking on the scale and telling myself, that one day it would go down, but just not right now. Everyone has dreams, but for anything to be accomplished you have to put in the effort.

In the summer of 2006, my mom forced me to take my Bronze Cross and Bronze Medallion to become a lifeguard. I didn’t want to do it but the four hour workout in the swimming pool for 10 days straight did me good. I was proud of myself; I noticed my clothes were looser and that I was a little bit more toned! On the final day was the exam, and after completed and passed, the man testing announced to the group of 5 taking the course, “some of us need to work on our bodies.” As he said this he leaned over and pinched my shoulder. I knew it was directed at me because everyone else was tiny. Right there all of my confidence built up came crashing down and I remember crying for days after. For the first time it wasn’t children picking on me, it was a grown man criticizing my weight.

Although hurtful, it gave me the motivation that I needed. Over the course of a year or two, I slowly and healthily lost about 50 pounds. I exercised and watched very closely what I ate, because I knew I deserved better than the way people were treating me.

My experience has showed me that I can do absolutely anything I put my mind to. It showed me the importance of taking care of myself and living a healthy lifestyle, which is why I’ve chosen “Living a healthy lifestyle” as my platform. Obesity and body image struggles are major growing concerns in today’s society especially among youth. I believe I’m a relatable young lady for girls across Canada and the world. There are very few lucky people out there who haven’t been hurt by bullying. I’m not a superficial perfect girl, no one is perfect and I know that. I’m proud to say that I’m a very accepting person and never degrade anyone because of the excessive hurt it causes, that I’ve experienced first hand. I would also like to say that I think everyone is beautiful inside and out, and that size does not matter. What matters is that you have confidence, are happy with who you are and most importantly are healthy!

Being a part of Miss Teen Canada has given me a huge confidence boost because I've accomplished something I never thought I would! In April, during the Saskatchewan competition was the first time I've worn a bikini in public. It was the first time I really felt comfortable enough to be infront of people speaking and walking around smiling. I'm so glad I got that opportunity because it's only brought positive aspects into my life.