In the vibrant tapestry of life, some threads shine with an unmistakable glow of resilience and beauty. Leona Andersen, born in Alberta, Canada, is one such luminous thread. With an academic foundation in BS Psychology from Mondriaan Aura College, Leona has woven an impressive narrative that spans various realms – from beauty pageants to humanitarian advocacy.
From Adversity to the International Stage
Leona’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of self-belief and perseverance. Despite being bullied as a “nerd and geek” in her formative years, she transformed the negativity into a stepping stone, propelling her into the world of beauty pageants. “I was curious about the life of a beauty queen, and being bullied made me unique; it became my motivation,” Leona reflects. Her realization that true beauty transcends physical appearance, embracing the inner radiance of the heart, marked the inception of her illustrious career.
Leona’s accolades are numerous, including the title of 1st Runner-up in ABS-CBN’s ReIna ng Tahanan 2021, and her enchanting presence as a Youtube sensation. Her journey scaled new heights as she was crowned Mrs. Philippines International 2021, subsequently representing her country with grace and poise on the global stage at Mrs. International in Singapore. Not just a beauty queen, Leona’s multifaceted talents shine through her roles as Director of Mrs. Zambales Philippines International Franchise, a distinguished model featured in British Vogue Magazine, Vanity Fair, and Glamour Magazine, and a celebrated Brand Ambassador showcased in New York Times Square.
Empowerment Beyond the Crown
Leona’s narrative extends beyond her achievements in beauty pageants and modeling. As an advocate for poverty and education since 2014, her commitment to social causes is unwavering. John Rey Malto, her talent manager, admires her resilience, stating, “Leona Andersen has faced numerous challenges, but these never hindered her from assisting those in dire need.” Her philanthropic efforts are evident in her scholarship programs and advocacy for women’s rights, earning her the title of ‘Philanthropist Queen.’
In an industry where the spotlight can fade, Leona’s focus remains steadfast on her humanitarian work and nurturing her skills in hosting and ramp model coaching. “I see myself in these roles, and they have sharpened my skills over 11 years in the industry,” she says, emphasizing her belief in ‘evil eye’ and the wisdom of keeping some things away from the public eye. This approach has not only honed her professional prowess but also safeguarded her from the challenges and adversities that fame often brings.
“Wisdom doesn’t come just with age; it comes with life experiences,” she muses, acknowledging the blessings and motivation derived from her recognition in the pageant industry.
As a single mother, Leona harbors dreams of a happy and harmonious family. Her mantra, “Chase your dreams; keep going on. You may go weak sometimes but never quit, just rest and get back into action,” resonates with the spirit of every woman who dares to dream and strive. She is a beacon of women’s empowerment, advocating for unity, positive thinking, and the magnetic allure of positivity.
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This article has been published in Volume 4, Issue 9 of The Global Filipino Magazine. If you have a unique life story or know someone who does, we’d love to hear from you. Reach out to us at eic@theglobalfilipinomagazine.com. If you’re interested in obtaining a print copy of the magazine, please contact Mr. JP Cosico at +971 54 482 0661.