Nine young women to compete in 2018 Miss Marianas

At nine candidates in all, the newest edition of the Miss Marianas Pageant has gathered its largest group of contestants who will be vying for the 2018 Miss Marianas tiara.

According to Stellar Marianas president Laila Boyer, this is the biggest group of contestants yet in the pageant’s history. They are Celine Cabrera, 22; Kaysha Cruz, 18; Eden Connor, 18; Leisha Deleon Guerrerro, 18; Cris Obaldo, 21; Jaiden Santos, 19; Kaylanie Santos, 18; Chloe Salvosa, 18; and Maricris Zapanta, 24.

This year’s theme will be “Enchanted.”

“The pageant theme…celebrates the beauty and enchantment of our local forests, its diverse wildlife and the cultural traditions that weave around it,” Boyer said.

Many of the candidates are new to concept of modeling but are determined to do their best.

According to Cabrera, she chose to join the pageant to represent the island; if she wins, she plans to promote the island and its culture.

Connor wishes to be more involved with community events. She said she would love to visit other islands while bringing the culture of Saipan with her to bring the islands together.

Obaldo took on the challenge of pageantry and put herself out there. If she wins, she plans to involve herself in more community events.

Salvosa believes the experience will boost her confidence and hopefully inspire other women. She plans to advocate for women empowerment in the Commonwealth.

Santos joined Miss Marianas for the experience and to be given the opportunity to represent the Commonwealth. She believes in empowering women and ensuring that every woman in the Commonwealth knows her worth.

Kaylanie Santos wants to experience something new in the world of pageantry.

Zapanta has always wanted to get out of her comfort zone and make a difference in her community. She hopes to promote fitness for everyone.

Deleon Guerrero is hoping her experience would build her confidence and expand her relationship with the community.

Cruz hopes that joining Miss Marianas will widen her understanding of the islands and its people.

According to Boyer, she and the Stellar Marianas committees has pulled out all the stops for the event. The pageant is set for February 2018. An exact date and venue has yet to be confirmed.