For MEGA’s September Issue, we explore the evolution of beauty queens as they step beyond their crowns and into the dynamic world of high fashion
Beauty queens are showing they’re more than just titles and tiaras. Their transition from sash to spotlight has taken them from being paragons of poise to embodiments of fierce individuality. These beauty queens point out that their reach extends far from the competition stage.
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Hannah Arnold
Binibining Pilipinas International 2021 Hannah Arnold talks about her experience as a model of the moment. “It’s truly an honor,” she says, praising the diversity and inclusivity of the local fashion industry. Arnold began her modeling career in Australia, where she felt out of place due to her curvier body, but has found an inviting atmosphere in the Philippines. “In Australia, I didn’t fit their look—my hips were too big. But here, designers appreciate my curves. I feel more accepted and celebrated for who I am.”
Arnold’s change from pageantry to modeling was accompanied by a greater respect for her physique and its importance in fashion. “I love seeing the diversity in the Philippines,” she says. “The industry here has embraced models of all shapes and sizes. It’s great to see that diversity is not something we have to push for so much; it’s already evident.” Her goal now is to continue presenting Filipino beauty on a worldwide scale and inspiring others to embrace their unique characteristics.
Kayla Carter
The newly-appointed Miss Charm Philippines 2024 Kayla Carter finds the transition from beauty queen to model has been a rewarding journey filled with gratitude and growth. Moving to the Philippines initially to compete in Miss Universe Philippines 2024, Carter found herself drawn to the local fashion scene. “I didn’t plan on staying here post-competition, but I’ve grown so much from this experience,” she says. “I’m enjoying every moment and excited for what’s next.”
Carter’s presence in the modeling industry has opened up new avenues for her to explore her creative side. “Being part of MEGA’s September issue and working with talented creatives has been amazing,” she notes. “I’m embracing every opportunity that comes my way and am eager to show more sides of myself.” Her trajectory exemplifies an intersection of pageantry poise and modeling confidence, an indication of her enthusiasm for her evolving career.
Nikki de Moura
Miss Grand Philippines 2023 Nikki de Moura describes her modeling career as an opportunity to express a different facet of herself compared to her pageant days. “Modeling allows me to be more creative and edgy,” she says. “In pageantry, there’s a specific standard you have to meet, but modeling gives me the freedom to explore my individuality.” Her extensive experience, starting at a young age, has equipped her with the skills and confidence to excel in this new space.
De Moura’s ability to navigate both the pageant and modeling worlds speaks to her versatility and depth. “Having worked since I was 12, I’ve developed a lot of skills and knowledge,” she explains. “Now, I’m bringing that experience into my modeling career, which is why I believe I’m a model of the moment.”
Maria Isabela Galeria
For Maria Isabela Galeria, who made it to the Top 15 in Binibining Pilipinas 2019, modeling offers a sense of freedom and authenticity that pageantry often restricts. “In pageants, I had to be prim and proper, always the best version of myself, which could be draining,” she shares. “Modeling, on the other hand, allows me to be myself more freely. I can have my alone time and be real without worrying about fitting a specific image.”
Galeria’s experience in modeling has been liberating, allowing her to embrace her true self and express her individuality. “It’s the opposite of pageantry,” she says. “I had to be constantly engaging and pleasing everyone, but in modeling, I can just be in the moment.” Her enthusiasm for modeling and her sense of personal pride highlight her unique position as a model of the moment, emphasizing her authentic presence in the industry.
When asked what makes her a model of the moment, her response is bold: “Me. Everything about me. My power, my grace, as Isabela Galeria, is enough.”
These models’ capacity to adapt, evolve, and accept their uniqueness heralds a new age in modeling, one in which authenticity and different beauty are appreciated. From accepting their curves to experimenting with creative freedom, they are constantly altering what it means to be a model of the moment. As they progress, their experiences serve as motivating reminders that true beauty and success can be discovered by remaining true to oneself and daring to be different.
