Meet Shamone Garcia | National Pageant Queen and Model

We had the good fortune of connecting with Shamone Garcia and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Shamone, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
My ultimate goal is to transform my platform from a mere concept to a powerful movement that emphasizes breaking barriers through personal development. This idea has been a fundamental aspect of my life that I have successfully brought to the pageantry world. Through my platform, I strive to empower individuals to overcome their barriers by rejecting societal conventions that limit self-worth and accepting nothing less than a “YES” for an answer. I strongly advocate for equal opportunities for all individuals, and I work tirelessly to ensure that the necessary support and services are available for their success. I believe that volunteering and community service are integral components of my platform, and I make it a point to give back to my community both locally and statewide. My personality, passion, and boundless energy are contagious, and my goal is to inspire everyone around me to feel like a “winner,” even without a crown. I am dedicated to making a positive impact on people’s lives, and I believe that my platform can help me achieve this goal.
 

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
“I started my journey in pageantry during the pandemic, which is my passion, while working as a Probation Officer in the Criminal Justice System. When I was younger, I faced challenges due to society’s stereotypes because I was “different” both physically and mentally. People told me that I would not graduate high school due to my learning disability. However, despite the odds and negativity, I not only graduated high school, but I am also a doctoral student now. At one point in my life, I felt stuck because the criminal justice field was another passion of mine. But the pandemic gave me a different outlook on things. I wanted to do more things that were blocked for me or told that I could not do in the past. I wanted to model and do pageants, but there was not too much plus-size representation. I remember being told that modeling was never for me. I also had a friend who was a model, or so I thought, until I realized that I was just the pretty fat friend who boosted her confidence. Despite this, I knew how to pose and look. I had to realize that I was the author of my story, and I would not allow myself to continue the journey without creating my brand called BeUQueen. I wanted to have a brand that creates opportunities for others and encourages them to break their barriers.”

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I would take my dear friend to Myrtle Beach for a relaxing and fun-filled day. We could pack a delicious picnic basket with snacks and drinks and spend the day lounging on the sandy beach while enjoying the breathtaking view of the ocean. It would be a perfect opportunity to catch up on each other’s lives and share some laughter. If we have time, we can also play beach games like volleyball or frisbee. At the end of the day, we can sit around a bonfire and roast marshmallows while listening to the sound of the waves.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I am deeply grateful to the Miss Plus America Organization for creating a space that celebrates and recognizes the beauty, talent, and intelligence of plus-sized women like me. Thanks to this organization, I have had the incredible opportunity to travel across the United States and beyond, meeting new people, discovering new cultures, and promoting my personal brand. The experience has been enlightening, empowering, and life-changing, and I will forever cherish the memories and friendships I have made along the way. I truly believe that the Miss Plus America Organization is making a positive difference in the world, by challenging outdated beauty standards and empowering women to embrace their unique qualities and talents.

Website: www.missplusamerica.com

Instagram: 2023_Ms_Plus_America_Elite

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/msplusamericaelite/

Other: https://www.facebook.com/shamone.garcia.BUQ/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61553636084179

Image Credits
Kieone Young