Interview with Jade Dando – Young European International Miss Wiltshire

Firstly thank you so much for taking the time to answer my questions about your pageant journey, it’s lovely getting to know other pageant queens and about the systems that they are representing.

So firstly what made you enter pageants ?

I was scouted for an online pageant when I was 16 so I decided to enter my local Miss England heat. After placing 1st Runner Up I never looked back.

You have competed before, what previous titles have you won ?

👸Miss Swindon RU 2014 👸Face of The Globe Team England 2016 👸Miss Beauty UK 2018/19

You have some amazing pageant achievements, how long have you been competing ?

I have been competing for just over 6 years.

What made you decide to compete in the YEMI System?

After seeing the experiences my best friend Hannah had in the system, I knew I had to enter. Every single girl that has competed has loved it and there’s such a sisterhood involved which I love.

YEMI also allows you to support your own charity, which was a pull factor for me as it meant I got to continue my work for Coppafeel while working towards my title.

What the best thing that pageants have taught you?

To love who you are and embrace! Pageantry in the UK is so inclusive and allows you to be the best version of yourself with the support of so many other girls from different systems.

What’s your pageant platform and why ?

My platform is Coppafeel. Coppafeel is a charity which raises awareness for breast and pec checking in all genders. When I came across the charity, I was captivated by the work they did.

After running the first ever Uni Boob Team at Falmouth University, I decided I wanted to continue to raise money and awareness for the amazing work they do.

What have you been doing in the run up to your pageant final ?

While being in lockdown I have been keeping busy with online campaigns while also starting my own #TLC4BC. I have also been planning my charity pageant, which will hopefully be taking place in September.

If you were to win what would it mean to you ?

Winning would mean the world to be. Knowing all my hard work had paid off.

What’s your dream title ?

My dream title is Young Miss International (YMI)

What’s the best advice you have for fellow pageant queens ?

Enjoy yourself! Pageant journeys always fly by so it’s important to enjoy every moment you have.

What makes a good pageant role model ?

Being passionate, caring and someone you would look up to.

What’s your favourite pageant round ?

My favourite round is Evening Wear. It’s usually your last time on stage and I’m usually wearing a dress I’m completely in love with. I also love the music that comes with the round.

How do you deal with pageant nerves ?

I’m a huge stress head, so my nerves don’t normally ease until I first walk on stage. I just try to enjoy every second.

It’s been lovely reading your questions about your pageant journey. I wish you every success at your final. Much love Charlotte, Ms Diamond South Yorkshire 2020.