In a vibrant celebration of beauty, culture, and empowerment, the MGF Miss Philippines LP Miss Universe Philippines pageant showcased not only stunning contestants but also a commitment to inclusivity and representation in the beauty industry. We are thrilled to announce that delegate Tia Michaels won the Diversity Fashion World sash at the pageant! This accolade not only recognizes her exceptional beauty and talent but also her commitment to promoting inclusivity and representation in the fashion and beauty industry.
Photo by @haroldjero
Tia's interview focused on the significance of diversity in pageantry and fashion. The winner, who embodies both grace and strength, shared her journey to the crown, emphasizing how her background and experiences shaped her perspective on beauty. Tia skillfully navigated questions surrounding the challenges contestants face and the role of pageants in promoting diversity.
1. How did it feel to receive this honor?
"Winning Diversity Fashion World was an incredible honor and a deeply moving experience. I felt a tremendous sense of gratitude and joy, as this achievement represents the culmination of so much hard work and dedication. I’m also deeply thankful for the support from my family, mentors, and everyone who believed in me. This not only inspires me to continue striving for excellence but also motivates me to use this platform to make a positive impact in the fashion world and beyond."
2. What does this title mean to you personally and professionally?
"It represents years of dedication, hard work, and perseverance. Personally, it feels like the culmination of a dream I’ve cherished for a long time. This title symbolizes not only my commitment to the fashion industry but also my personal growth and resilience. It’s a validation of the effort I’ve invested in pursuing my passion and overcoming various challenges along the way."
3. Why do you believe celebrating diversity is important in today’s fashion industry?
"Celebrating diversity in today’s fashion industry is crucial for several reasons. It also promotes inclusivity and representation, ensuring that fashion reflects the rich and varied society we live in. By embracing different cultures, backgrounds, and identities, fashion can challenge stereotypes and create a more equitable industry."
Photo by @rainsworldphoto
4. In your own words, what does diversity mean to you?
"To me, diversity means embracing and celebrating the wide array of differences that exist among individuals. It encompasses various aspects such as race, ethnicity, gender, age, sexual orientation, and abilities. Personally, diversity represents the richness of human experience and the value of learning from each other’s unique perspectives."
5. Can you share any personal experiences that shaped your views on diversity?
"Growing up in a mixed house hold, my Father is American and my Mother is Filipino. So, growing up I was submerged in two different cultures and when I took up Polynesian Dancing i also submerged into the Polynesian culture as well. Having all these aspects of how different cultures are makes me have such a wide range of appreciation of everyone."
6. How do you think the fashion industry can continue to promote and embrace diversity?
"To advance diversity, the fashion industry should focus on several key areas. Firstly, it’s important to ensure that representation is inclusive, featuring models and talent from diverse backgrounds in a genuine way. This goes beyond mere appearances and reflects true diversity in fashion. Supporting equal opportunities for individuals from all backgrounds is also crucial. This includes creating mentorship programs and fostering collaborations with diverse creatives to enhance industry inclusivity. Additionally, ongoing education on cultural sensitivity and unconscious bias is essential for professionals in the industry. Seeking and incorporating feedback from diverse communities helps to avoid stereotypes and ensures that diversity is genuinely integrated into all aspects of the business. Lastly, diversity should be reflected not just in marketing but throughout business practices and storytelling. Engaging with diverse communities and supporting platforms that amplify varied voices can significantly contribute to a more inclusive and dynamic fashion industry."
Photo by @tseracyphotography
7. What message do you hope to convey to others through your role as a delegate?
"As a delegate, I hope to convey a message of empowerment, inclusivity, and positive change. Personally, I am driven by values of integrity, compassion, and a commitment to making a difference. Through my role, I want to inspire others to embrace these values and recognize the power they have to effect change in their own lives and communities. My goal is to raise awareness on important issues such as diversity, sustainability, and social justice. By using my platform to advocate for these causes, I aim to foster a greater understanding and encourage meaningful action towards a more equitable and inclusive world. Additionally, I want to serve as a role model for those who may not always see themselves represented in leadership positions. I hope to show that with dedication and a clear vision, it’s possible to make a significant impact and be a voice for underrepresented communities. Ultimately, I aspire to contribute to a future where diverse voices are heard and valued, and where we work collectively towards a more just and compassionate society."
8. What challenges have you faced as a model in terms of diversity, and how have you overcome them?
"As a model representing diversity in the ever-evolving fashion world, I would face challenges such as breaking stereotypes, navigating limited opportunities, and dealing with surface-level diversity. The industry, though traditionally focused on narrow beauty standards, is shifting, with today’s standards more inclusive than ever. Along the way, I would meet many new people, but I’d also experience rejection from casting directors and agencies, which is a natural part of the journey. Despite these obstacles, I would align myself with brands and agencies that genuinely embrace diversity, use my platform to advocate for authentic representation, and build a strong online presence to reach a broader audience. By staying resilient and embracing the changes in the industry, I would contribute to the growing movement toward greater inclusivity in fashion."
9. What advice would you give to aspiring models or pageant queens looking to make a difference in the industry?
"For aspiring models or pageant queens looking to make a difference in the industry, my advice is to embrace your unique identity and let it shine, as authenticity is increasingly valued. Build a strong personal brand through social media to share your story and values, and use your platform to advocate for causes you care about, such as diversity and body positivity. Network widely to connect with industry professionals and peers, and stay resilient in the face of rejection, viewing setbacks as steps toward success. Educate yourself about the business aspects of modeling and pageantry, and seek out opportunities with brands and organizations committed to inclusivity. By staying true to yourself and aligning with like-minded partners, you can make a meaningful impact and contribute to a more inclusive industry."
10. How do you see your role evolving in the future, particularly regarding advocacy for diversity?
"I view my role in advocating for diversity as a deeply meaningful responsibility. My aim is to continually enhance my understanding and respect for diverse perspectives, ensuring that I provide responses that are both thoughtful and inclusive. I am committed to amplifying voices that are often underrepresented and supporting efforts to create more equitable and inclusive practices. By actively working to identify and address biases, I strive to challenge stereotypes and promote fair representation. I also seek to educate and inspire others to embrace and value diversity, helping to build a more understanding and compassionate world. In this way, I hope to contribute to a broader movement toward inclusivity and respect for all individuals."
Photo by @rainsworldphoto
Tia is a leader that promotes diversity, empowerment, and the beauty of individuality. As the pageant world continues to evolve, it is clear that voices like Tia's are vital in driving the conversation forward and fostering a more inclusive future for all.