There are many real-life Princesses in Hawaii

I remember being a princess every year for Halloween when I was in elementary school. One notable year my mom took a long flowing skirt and made it into a cape, she then sewed a rhinestone clip to a makeshift headband so I could feel like I was wearing a crown. I looked more like a mini-superhero than a princess but at least I felt like one on the inside, if only for a night or two. Not every little girl wants to be a princess, but I sure did and I know I am not alone. As I watch my nieces grow they are just like me very energetic, free spirited, love to dance, sing and act. I am so touched to see these little girls grow into lovely young ladies. 

You're probably wondering where I am going with this... But I wanted to share something that has impressed me and grabbed my attention. A handful of former Miss Hawaii's have relaunched a program that is aimed at helping young girls find their inner princess. 

The Miss Hawaii's Princess Program is headed by former Miss Hawaii's Billie Takaki Lueder (MH 2000), Candes Meijide Gentry (MH 1999) and Jennifer Hera Pimentel (MH 1998), to provide a mentoring, character building, positive and engaging platform/experience for young Hawaii girls. The non-competitive program allows participants (5-12 years-old) to meet the current contestants vying for the title of Miss Hawaii, they also get to hang out and chat with the current Miss Hawaii (Miss Hawaii represents our state in the Miss America Program) along with lunch and an intimate hair and nail beauty session... Then a beautiful crowning moment, where each girl is given a mini-Miss Hawaii crown, a rose and a gift bag, in addition to the memories that will last a lifetime.

---

Billie, Candes and Jenn

Spending time with the contestants for Miss Hawaii 2015, the lady in the middle (in turquoise) Jeanne Kapela went on to capture the title of Miss Hawaii 2015 a few weeks ago.

Meeting Miss Hawaii 2014, Stephanie Steuri - this Kauai native is going to become a veterinarian someday.

Each princess gets to learn hands-on what the four points of the Miss America crown present: style, success, service and scholarship.

That crowning moment! Friends and family members watch from the audience and get to experience this exciting and memorable moment together.

The program is tied to the Miss Hawaii and Miss Hawaii Outstanding Teen organization. Each year the experience will be held during May/June when the annual Miss Hawaii Pageant is held. The next Miss Hawaii's Princess Program is slated for 2016 and for more information feel free to email mhprincessprogram@gmail.com. As a former Miss Hawaii, I am just in awe and amazed by the ladies who have put this program together, it's a great opportunity for our local young ladies  to connect with great role models, inspiring community leaders and feel comfortable being who they really are -- Princesses.