Leticia Rivera, Miss Illinois Latina Ethnic World 2012

Leticia I. Rivera, Miss Illinois Latina Ethnic World 2012

Why did you choose this particular pageant system versus any other pageant system?

I chose to be apart of the Latina Ethnic World pageant system because I felt like it was different from any other system I’ve been involved with. Their (Ethnic World) purpose is to provide women with a positive opportunity to gain confidence and inspire each other despite their backgrounds. To build positive relationships with other women who are inspiring and working diligently to leave a positive impact in their communities. Ethnic World delegates come together to share their platforms with community projects, ideas and goals. The Ethnic World system is to strengthen and empower our women to unify a sisterhood.

Do you have previous pageantry experience?

I have been involved with pageantry since I was fourteen. I started off doing local pageants and once I received my first local crown which was Miss Teen Puerto Rico IL 2008. I branched out to compete in state, national, and online pageants. I am now working on gaining crown number 13!

What was it like competing at Nationals?

Nationals are always nerve wrecking because as a delegate we never know what to expect of each other. However, Nationals for Latina Ethnic World is June 23rd of this year in Las Vegas. I cannot wait to see all the delegates and make new pageant sisters. As I compete for the national Crown I will be leaving my heart on stage.

What life experience have you used to achieve your dreams?

One Life experience that I have used to continue achieving my dream was in 2010, when my cousin Vanessa passed away due to Throat Cancer. She was only twenty two years old with a five year old daughter. Every goal I achieve is because I know my cousin would want me to live life like it was my last day. I would of traded places with her in a heartbeat, so that she could see her daughter blossom into a young lady. Her last day on this earth was the day that I knew I couldn’t take advantage of anything in life because tomorrow is never promised.

What advice can you give others who want to compete in their first pageant?

The advice I would give to others who are competing in their first pageant is to remember to have fun. In my first pageant I had the best experience of my life. I was able to meet so many new people and we still remain friends today. Just remember to stay positive, be yourself, and have fun!

What advice can you give others that have pageantry experience?

For those who do have experience in pageantry please remain humble. Pageantry is very competitive. It is not only about a pretty face or crown. It’s about what you as an individual can do to improve within your community along with becoming that positive role model for not only your youth but everyone around you.

Which designer is your favorite for evening gowns?

Hands down Jiovani! I have worn a Jiovani dress for almost every pageant I’ve competed in. They are to die for.

How would you describe your every day style?

Besides my college wardrobe of yoga pants, hoodies, and bearpaws, I would say my style would be very Cha Cha Diva as my family would say! I Love wearing heels and I have to accessorize everything.

How do you cope with pageant nerves? What advice can you give others so they can cope too?

I deal with pageant nerves by talking to my grandmother Iris. Since her medical condition doesn’t allow her to see me on stage, she is the person I have to call while I am getting ready to compete. She really calms me down, after she makes me cry and laugh at the same time. After talking to her I put my game face on and always end up leaving my heart on every stage I’ve walked across. To those who don’t know how to cope with their nerves remain positive especially if you have prior pageant experience. You know what you are capable of doing once you go on stage.

Do you have future goals in pageantry (any specific pageant you plan to compete in)?

If I do not win at Nationals and go on to compete in Ethnic World International 2012, this will be my last pageant because I want to focus more on my education as I am already in my second year of college, majoring in Nursing. I’ve been involved with pageants for the past seven years and I feel like I’ve accomplish more than the average twenty year old has. I would love to continue directing pageants and hopefully one day have my own pageant system!

Do you have a platform?

My platform is Suicide Prevention, specifically To Write Love on her Arms foundation. I have chosen Suicide Prevention because I feel like it is such a gruesome topic that most people are afraid to even speak out about. So many people are committing suicide due to drug abuse, alcohol abuse, depression, loneliness and bullying. I feel that everyone deserves to know that they are loved and life doesn’t have to end because they have hit a rough patch in their life. The tunnel is always brighter on the other side. I support Life!

What are your hobbies?

My hobby is more like my other passion in life. I’ve been dancing since the age of ten, I became a semi professional Salsa Dancer at the age of fifteen with a well known dance company in Chicago called Los Soneros del Swing directed by Andy Cruz. Dancing has been my one outlet when times got too hard too handle. It is the only way I truly know to express myself when words fail.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

In five years, I see myself already graduated from Northern Illinois University with my master’s degree in Nursing. I hope to be working as a Registered Nurse in the Pediatrics unit at one of the most prestigious hospitals in Chicago. By that time I should be driving a fancy candy apply red car too!