In a world where dreams seem distant and challenges daunting, there are individuals who epitomize the essence of perseverance and inspiration. Camila Pinzon, crowned Miss World Colombia, stands as a beacon of hope and determination, radiating positivity and purpose with every step she takes.
Embarking on her journey from the bustling streets of Colombia to the global stage of Miss World, Camila’s story is one of unwavering dedication and profound passion. Her ascent to the crown wasn’t just about beauty; it was a testament to her unwavering commitment to education and empowerment.
In this exclusive Q&A session, Camila graciously shares her insights, shedding light on her transformative journey, her advocacy for education, and her aspirations beyond the realm of pageantry. Join us as we delve into the world of this remarkable young woman, whose grace, intellect, and compassion inspire hearts across continents.
Q: Can you share with us your journey to becoming Miss World Colombia and what it means to you personally?
Camila: Ever since I was a teenager I wanted to participate in the Miss Colombia contest however it was important for me to achieve my academic and professional goals first in order to have a message to convey and inspire younger girls with my own example. After achieving my second master’s degree I decided to go back to Colombia for the contest as it felt it was the right time to do it. I ended up winning and ever since it has been the most rewarding journey in my life: being able to reach and touch so many hearts around the globe.
Q: How has your background and experiences shaped your platform and advocacy as a beauty queen?
Camila: I believe that if you want to inspire others you have to do it with your own example and not only with words, therefore my background gave me the credibility to inspire the others and to work for my advocacy which is education. I always tell children and young people that they can achieve everything they want in life with education and with discipline.
Q: What inspired you to pursue a career in modeling and pageantry?
Camila: Modeling was something I did in my spare time during my university years in Paris, however pageantry gave me a whole meaning and purpose because it allows me to speak up for the causes that I care about the most. I often say that my sash is like a microphone because every action that I do has now a bigger impact and speaks louder.
Q: Can you tell us about the preparation process for competitions like Miss World, and how you’ve been getting ready for the possibility of becoming the next Miss World?
Camila: The real preparation for the competition took me several years because Miss World focuses on the candidate as a whole, not only on the external part. My education prepared me to inspire the children a d younger generations with my own example. However it is still a beauty pageant so for the past 18 months I took catwalk, make up and hair lessons.
Q: What do you hope to achieve during your reign as Miss World Colombia, and what causes are you most passionate about championing?
Camila: My life mantra is: solidarity has no borders or nationality therefore my humanitarian efforts took place not only in my native Colombia but in 11 countries across 4 continents from Syria to Kenya to Poland to Indonesia.. Education has been always my main focus as it is the most effective way to end with inequalities in our society.
Q: In the competitive world of pageantry, what do you believe sets you apart from other contestants?
Camila: We are all beautiful in our own way, however I think that what sets me apart is my international background because this gave me the ability to stand in global scenarios which is what pageants look for: a world leader and someone that adapts eqsily to new cultures.
Q: How do you maintain a balance between your personal life, career, and responsibilities as a beauty queen?
Camila: It is all about discipline and making personal sacrifices. My main priority at the moment is to make my country proud regardless of time and energy investment. I must thank coffee as well ( laughs )
Q: What advice would you give to young women who aspire to follow in your footsteps and pursue a career in modeling or pageantry?
Camila: I will advise them to finish first their education in order to have the bases and also in order to have the maturity to embark on these adventures.
It is important as well to know what is your advocacy because as beauty queens our objective is to be spokeswomen for the causes that deserve attention.
Last it is important to have a support network as it can be quite an emotional journey
Q: Can you share a memorable moment or experience from your journey as Miss World Colombia so far?
Camila: I will never forget my humanitarian work in the Guajira region in Colombia where only indigenous communities live, it takes up to 6 hours to reach the isolated places where they are set up. It was a memorable thing to provide school materials in their own language . I got peace if mind knowing thatI gave a life lasting gift: education
Q: Looking towards the future, what are your aspirations beyond the realm of pageantry, and how do you plan to continue making a positive impact in the world?
Camila: My humanitarian work is not something done for a pageant, it is a life long mission so I have already 2 humanitarian trips for planned for this year: one in asia and one in my own Colombia.
I also aspire to inspire therefore will continue giving motivational talks in schools so that the pupils get the confidence required to achieve their goals.
On the personal side I want to do an MBA in two years time and continue my marketing career.
Thank you so much for this interview. It’s been an honour!
On the Cover: Camila Pinzon
Photographer: Alex Zainea
Hair: Elle Clancy
Mua: Nadia Afzali
Styling: TheLondon.Style_