NINE delegates will participate in the sashing ceremony of the ‘Miss Region 3 Pageant 2024’ today when the action gets going at 19:00 hours at the Leonora Technical Institute, West Coast Demerara.

The pageant brings together young women between the ages of 17 and 25 from different walks of life across the Essequibo Islands-West Demerara region and is led by Coordinator Eartha Scott, and Leotha Green-Watson, with support from Regional Chairman Inshaan Ayube.

Vying for the crown are Elizabeth Davis, Ntisha Edwards, Natasha Neblett, Shontel Parris, Sueann Yipsam, Akeda Verian, Aaliyah Douglas, Donelle Harvey and Rebekah Yankanah – young ladies with stories to tell and good and bad experiences to share.

Several of them, having recovered from various forms of abuse, depression, and other ills, want to make a positive impact on the lives of other young women who may be dealing with the same circumstances. Even single mothers and married women were allowed entry into the pageant.

In an interview with Buzz this week, Scott said the venue had to be changed from the Golf Course to the technical institute because of weather patterns. The planning team is still hoping that more sponsors will come on board, but in the meantime, they are trying to raise funds through various events to help the delegates offset their expenses.

Scott, who left her job as a nurse to focus on her work with pageants, had hosted the ‘Miss Vergenoegen’ pageant for two years. Some 12 years later, she is again pursuing the pageant because she said it is a way she can help young women.

Even though she is yet to catch up with the modern pace of pageantry, she has been doing well so far. “I see pageants as a means of helping young women to bring up themselves. There are a lot of vulnerable young ladies out there and they just want a way to express themselves. Because of pageantry, it helps many. Maybe one day I will do it countrywide, but for now I am at the regional level,” Scott shared.

Since she started working with the nine young women in this pageant, the 34-year-old said she has seen how they have grown tremendously, along with their character and confidence.

“Miss Region #3 Pageant 2024 is not just a competition; it’s a platform for empowering young men and women to embrace their talents, confidence, and leadership skills. Our mission extends beyond the stage, as we strive to make a positive impact on our community through various charitable initiatives and community service projects,” Scott has explained.

“We believe that every individual deserves the opportunity to shine and fulfill their potential, regardless of their background or circumstances,” she added.

“Your dream doesn’t end because you’re a mother or single parent,” Scott expressed, adding, “Miss Region #3 Pageant will play a crucial role in helping us continue our mission and make a meaningful difference in the lives of our contestants and the community at large.”

The winner will be crowned on July 27 at a venue to be confirmed.