Madison Jovanovski

Name: Madison Jovanovski

Age: 17

Nationality: Macedonian

Sponsor: St. Clement of Ohrid Macedonian Orthodox Church

Parents: John and Nicole Jovanovski

High school: Clearview High School Class of 2019 Future Plans: I plan to attend to attend college to major in pharmacy. Costume: The costume I am wearing originates from the City of Bitola, Macedonia where my Baba (Grandma) was born and raised. It is a traditional costume that is worn for special occasions. The white dress is called a Koshula and is beautifully embroidered with flowers. It is worn under a vest called a Saja this is made of wool and has hand sewn embroidery that is called Elek. My green apron with a floral pattern is called a Futa. This type of costume is handed down from generation to generation andis still worn for special occasions. Favorite Tradition: My favorite family tradition occurs on Easter. My Great Baba would make her homemade Kozinjak (sweet bread). She baked coins inside and the lucky person whop found the coin is blessed and has good luck throughout the year. She also dyed our Easter eggs with boiled red onion skins. The eggs turned red in color, to represent new life.

Favorite native dish: I love Zelnik, which is made out of phyllo dough layered with feta cheese.

I wanted to be an International Princess to represent where I come from. Being Macedonian is a special piece of me and what I represent. I love to be able to share my culture and traditions with many people and the other princesses.

It is special being able to represent the Macedonian culture because it’s me. My nationality is one that many people don’t know about. Being able to be a Princess and represent my different culture is a great opportunity.