11-year-old Tabernacle native discovers her knack for modeling
While Kathryn Sebastian did not quite make it to the top for the National American Miss pageant, she did win many of the optional contests such as singing, piano and public speaking. She also won a cash prize of $250.
Not bad for an 11 year old who has never modeled before!
Kathryn benefited from a competition that was not similar to a customary beauty pageant. NAM is not beauty based; instead it focuses on all aspects of a contestant such as self-confidence, poise, communication skills, talents and knowledge of her surroundings.
“NAM is not based on looks, it is about encouraging self-esteem and showcasing talents and achievements. NAM is a platform used to bring out your potential. To be successful in this competition, you must be confident and have good communication skills,” Kathryn said.
The girls compete at various levels based on their age. Kathryn participated in the pre-teen division against 130 girls who each represented a different town in New Jersey.
Kathryn said she was very proud to represent Tabernacle. She was selected based upon the activities and accomplishments highlighted on her application.
The pageant weekend is a hectic experience that is spread out over a two-day period. This year, it was held on Aug. 15 and 16 at the Hyatt Hotel in New Brunswick.
The pageant consists of four competitions that each receive an individual score from judges. Thirty percent of the contestant’s total score is based on personal introduction, 30 percent on formal wear, poise and appearance, 30 percent on communications skills in an interview scenario and 10 percent on participating in a community involvement project.
Kathryn went home with numerous prizes, finishing first place in the talent competition, second place in the art contest and third place in the spokesperson competition.
“I can honestly say that my confidence level has increased since my first time entering the pageant last year,” Kathryn said. “I’ve been shy and not very outspoken. I wanted to break out of that, and I believe NAM has helped me do just that!”
“I’ve always wanted Kathryn to showcase her potential not just in academics or sports,” her mother Mary said. “I believe pageants can help Kathryn be more well rounded, give her more confidence and gain great friendships.”
Kathryn alluded to the fact that NAM provides a multitude of opportunities for kids like herself to showcase their talents, while also providing a platform to meet other girls who share similar interests.
The pageant also focuses on the community by donating school supplies and books for children who are less fortunate.
The ambitious 11 year old has her sights set on becoming a doctor, but would welcome the opportunity to stay a part of the NAM family.
“I would love to pursue further in the pageantry world. While I aspire to become a doctor, one of my dreams is to compete in the Miss America contest,” Kathryn said.
Kathryn also won first place at a spelling bee competition earlier this year conducted by the Women’s Club of Medford.
“My daughter is truly a dream child. Anything she initiates, she invests hard work and dedication to stamp her name,” Mary said.
