About Miss Orem's Teen

For me, talent is about storytelling, whether through music, acting, or spoken word. My passion for the stage has led me to explore many forms of performance, from playing piano—an instrument I’ve studied for over eight years—to acting, singing, and sharing monologues. For my Miss Orem Teen competition, I performed "Show Me" from My Fair Lady, a song that allows me to combine my love for both singing and acting. I chose this song because it speaks to authenticity and genuine connection, themes that resonate with me and my community service initiative, Art is S.M.A.R.T..

Performing this song allowed me to express how the arts empower us to be true to ourselves, which is at the heart of my mission. I believe the talent portion of the competition is a powerful way to share who I am and to inspire others through creativity. Every performance I give is an opportunity to connect, inspire, and demonstrate how the arts can help us all express our truest selves.

Fitness to me is about holistic well-being. As an actor and performer, I’ve learned that mental and physical health are deeply interconnected, and both are essential for success. Inspired by my mother’s resilience during her battle with breast cancer, I stay active through dance and other physical activities, which not only keep me strong but also enhance my mental focus and creativity. Leading a balanced, healthy lifestyle allows me to be my best self on and off the stage.

My community service initiative, Art is S.M.A.R.T., goes beyond promoting art; it’s about helping teens find confidence, self-expression, and resilience. I know firsthand how the arts can “wash away the dust of everyday life,” as Picasso put it. Like many teens, I’ve faced struggles with self-esteem and feeling overwhelmed, but the arts became my lifeline. I’ll never forget the confidence I gained while drawing a dragon for a contest—a small, creative moment that reminded me how art can lift us up. Art is S.M.A.R.T. because it improves Self-esteem, Mental health, Anxiety and Depression, stronger Reasoning skills, and Teamwork. Neuroscientists call this brain-boosting effect “neurobics,” and it shows the arts have real power to strengthen our minds. Through this initiative, I’m connecting with teens, sharing stories, and advocating for the arts in schools. Art isn’t just a subject; it’s a lifeline, and with Art is S.M.A.R.T., I hope to help my generation realize its value.   

My experience in the Speech and Debate League has been invaluable in preparing me for the interview and on-stage question portions of the competition. I love exploring topics from all angles, examining how an issue can affect people in different ways. In debate, I’ve learned to look beyond my own perspective and consider the experiences, beliefs, and needs of others. This has deepened my empathy and given me a unique approach to complex topics, which I carry into every interview or on-stage moment.

I believe that understanding and respecting diverse viewpoints makes us stronger and helps us find common ground. For my on-stage question, I aim to convey my belief in the power of critical thinking and open-mindedness, qualities that I feel are crucial for my generation as we navigate an increasingly interconnected world.