Saryna Ritter, Miss Illinois International 2012

Saryna Ritter is Miss Illinois International. She will compete for the Miss International competition held in Chicago, IL on July 27 & July 28, 2012.

Tell us about your recent win as Miss Illinois International? Winning Miss Illinois International 2012 was a true dream come true! I was absolutely taken back and overwhelmed with emotions and tears as they said my name. The night was made more special as the 25^th Mrs. Illinois International was chosen that evening and many previous titleholders were back for the celebration.

How many times did you compete for the title before you won? What inspired you to keep trying? This was my 10th time competing in an International pageant. I returned because I love pageantry and believe in what this system stands. I do not believe in giving up on my dreams and I am blessed to have a supportive family and friends.

What is your platform and why did you choose it? My platform is Alphabet Kids teaching Multi-Cultural Understanding and Tolerance through literature. I chose this platform because I can relate to their mission of tolerance, understanding and loving yourself for who you are. I believe this program instills good morals, builds character and teaches tolerance for others.

Do you think all titleholders should have a platform even if the pageant doesn’t require it? Actually, I think EVERYONE should have a platform that fits his or her passion and values. It’s important to contribute to society and give of ourselves to improve our community, our world, or the life of another. If you are going to ask people to accept you as a role model, you need to be one before you enter a pageant…or run for public office!

How are you feeling about the international competition? Great! Like most contestants, I am receiving training on the interview and stage portions of the competition. But the best training right now is to put my platform and the Illinois title to work through appearances. Being able to speak from the heart and from experience is vital to being genuine to the judges and myself

What have you done to prepare for Internationals? Again, I have made several appearances. I am on a rigorous workout schedule and a healthy, all-natural, home cooked diet. Up until now, I’ve been concentrating on these areas. However, we are now starting to work on the wardrobe and pageant prep. We don’t want to peak too early or have too much time to question our choices.

How have you grown as an individual now that you have won the Miss Illinois International title? Whether I’m wearing a crown or not, I recognize now more than ever that I have an opportunity to inspire people when I meet them and I try to do that every day.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years? In 5 years I see myself steadily moving up the corporate ladder at my job. I see myself as a wife and mother living in my hometown. I will always be involved in the International System as a supporter.

What has been the highlight of your year so far? There really isn’t one moment that I can point to as a highlight. Every time I have the opportunity to don the crown is special and reminds me of the moment I was crowned.

Tell us something interesting about yourself. I love going antiquing with my mother. It‘s like walking through time. Many of the dealers are knowledgeable about the history of the pieces they vend and I love to hear the stories of items we see.

Which designer is your favorite when it comes to your pageant wardrobe (shoes, dresses, earrings)? Choosing a favorite designer is tough as there is a lot of talent out there. I also like to be able to put my own touch on my wardrobe with slight alterations and accessories. As far as shoes, you will find me in Jonathan Kaynes because they fit my feet. I can wear them for hours without pain.

Saryna Ritter is Miss Illinois International 2012. Saryna is a true inspiration. It took her over 9 tries to compete in the Illinois International pageant as both a teen and miss before finally winning her state title. She is a role model and truly exemplifies perseverance, hope, and determination.

Is there anything else you would like our readers to know? I want every single reader to know that you should never ever give up on your dreams! I said I would never give up on becoming Miss Illinois International because I have such passion for the pageant system. Whatever your dream may be go after it!