Contest builds confidence
Miss A&P is not a beauty pageant, according to contestant Kaetyn Grace.
‘‘You don’t have to be the most beautiful girl in town.’’
That is the advice the confident 16- year- old would give other young women considering entering the self- discovery journey for 2015.
It all began in May this year when Kaetyn followed one of her friends by entering the competition.
‘‘The first night was all about learning karate,’’ she said.
‘‘It was pretty cool. We learnt a lot about how to defend ourselves and our coach was very empowering.’’
A true ‘‘ girly girl’’ at heart, Kaetyn said one of the biggest highlights was learning how to walk in heels and do facials.
‘‘Over the whole time I’ve just enjoyed learning about the other girls and getting to know them.’’
The St John Cadet said winning first place is not her motivator.
‘‘ It would be cool if I got a placing but I don’t mind because it’s been a journey . . . Winning would just be a bonus.’’
All four contestants are in the running to win the final Miss A&P title which will be judged at the A&P Show, on December 6 at the Tokoroa Memorial Sportsground.
Convener Arama NgapoLipscombe said the programme was designed to build confidence and encourage self-development.
‘‘This is not a beauty contest,’’ she said.
The judging of the girls includes personality, commitment to the six- week programme, demonstrating positive qualities that best represent Tokoroa and the A&P Show, promotion of sponsor, public speaking and appearance and deportment.