A five-year-old from Ramsgate has won an international pageant title in her first ever competition.
Chilton Primary pupil Sophia Martin conquered learning and speech delay difficulties to shine on the stage at the Burstin Hotel in Folkestone for the FOEW International Pageant.
Mum Yasmin says Sophia’s triumph was a complete surprise because she is usually so shy.
The events worker said: “The FOEW pageant had girls from all over the world including America, Japan and Ireland. Sophia was in the mini-category for four to eight year olds. It’s something she has never done before.”
Yasmin had previously taken part in pageants herself and hoped the experience would be good for her daughter but admits having doubts after the first day of rehearsals.
The 37-year-old said: “I thought I might have to take her out and felt guilty but by day three, and the final, her little personality came out on stage and she was blowing kisses.
“She is a happy little girl but her learning difficulty and speech delay means it can be really hard for her to express herself. That’s why it was such a shock that she won but when the music and lights came on and the crowd was cheering she came alive, it was like a different little girl. She was doing kisses and telling the judges ‘I love you!’
“She wasn’t the best technically, some of the girls knew the dance moves perfectly, but her personality was why she won.”
The Future of Empowering Women pageant aims to promote ‘Beauty with Purpose.’ Initially founded in 2009, the website says: “We’re focused on empowering the young ladies that take part in our contests, not forcing them into a stereotype. At FOEW, we do not hold swimwear rounds, all girls are asked to wear age-appropriate outfits and make up, and each girl is interviewed and their charitable activities taken into account.”
Part of Sophia’s prize is a trip to Disneyland Paris next year.
Yasmin said: “I did the same pageant 15 years ago and I came second which was amazing but Sophia has beaten me and come first. It took me 15 years to get my second place and it took Sophia a week to win!
“Her achievement is especially inspiring because she has delayed speech. Through determination, confidence-building, and lots of hard work, she developed the skills to step on stage, perform beautifully, and ultimately bring home the international crown.
“We’re incredibly proud of how far she’s come, and hope her story could inspire other families and children facing similar challenges.”
Well Done, Congratulations Sophia.