Ahead of Miss Lebanon 2024, we thought to get some insight into and what the contestants should expect competing at the pageant. In an exclusive interview with Lara Hraoui, the 3rd runner-up at Miss Lebanon 2022, we delved into her personal journey, behind-the-scenes experiences, and the impact of participating in the prestigious pageant.
Here’s what she shared with us:
Personal Journey and Experience
Can you tell us about your journey to becoming a Miss Lebanon contestant?
“I never believed in beauty pageants until the day I actually did. Growing up, people would always tell me that I should participate in Miss Lebanon, but I never took their words seriously. I didn’t see myself in that world. It wasn’t until I spontaneously decided to attend the Miss Lebanon casting that everything changed. The moment I stepped into the casting room, I felt a mix of nervousness and excitement. It was a pivotal moment for me, realizing that maybe I had what it took to compete in this prestigious pageant.”
What inspired you to participate in the Miss Lebanon pageant?
“My humanitarian side inspired me to take part in the competition. I’ve always been passionate about helping others and making a positive impact on my community. The Miss Lebanon pageant presented itself as a platform where I could amplify my voice and advocate for causes close to my heart. I saw it as an opportunity to blend my love for humanitarian work with the allure and influence of the pageant world.”
How did you prepare for the competition, both physically and mentally?
“Physically, I focused on physiotherapy, mobility exercises, and strength training at the gym. I wanted to ensure that I was in the best shape possible to handle the physical demands of the competition. However, I must admit that I neglected the mental preparation. In hindsight, I realize that preparing mentally is just as important as physical training. I didn’t make enough effort to build my confidence and resilience, which are crucial for handling the pressures of the pageant.”
Can you describe your emotions and thoughts during the competition?
“I experienced a whirlwind of emotions throughout the competition, ranging from anxiety and fear to excitement and anticipation. On one hand, I was nervous about performing well and representing myself in the best possible light. On the other hand, there was a sense of excitement and exhilaration about being part of such a grand event. My thoughts were often a mix of ‘Let’s get this over with’ and ‘I can do this.’ It was a constant battle between self-doubt and determination.”
What was your favorite part of the entire experience?
“My favorite part of the experience was definitely when I messed up my second answer during the Q&A session and knew that a lot of memes were coming my way! It might sound strange, but that moment of humor and humility was incredibly liberating. It reminded me that it’s okay to make mistakes and laugh at yourself. The internet’s reaction, turning it into memes, spread laughter and positivity, and that made me happy. It showed me the lighter side of the competition and allowed me to connect with people on a more relatable level.”
Behind the Scenes
What is a typical day like for a Miss Lebanon contestant during the competition?
“A typical day for a Miss Lebanon contestant is filled with rigorous preparations and activities. We would start early in the morning with rehearsals for the choreography, followed by various workshops and training sessions. These included everything from public speaking and catwalk practice to grooming and styling tips. Despite the hectic schedule, one of the best parts was making new and amazing connections with fellow contestants. We formed bonds that will last a lifetime.”
Were there any unexpected challenges or surprises you faced during the pageant?
“Personally, I didn’t face any major unexpected challenges or surprises during the pageant. I felt well-prepared for most of what came my way. However, the intensity of the schedule and the level of competition were definitely eye-opening. It was a reminder that every contestant brought their A-game, and there was no room for complacency.”
Can you share any memorable or funny moments from your time in the pageant?
“One of the most memorable moments was during the Q&A session when I made a mistake in my second answer. I knew instantly that it was going to become a meme, and it did! Instead of feeling embarrassed, I embraced the humor in it. The way it spread across the internet, making people laugh, was incredibly heartwarming. It showed me the power of humor and how a lighthearted moment can create a positive impact.”
Personal Growth and Impact
How did participating in Miss Lebanon impact your personal life and career?
“Participating in Miss Lebanon has had a profound impact on my personal life. Although my career hasn’t seen significant changes yet, the experience of becoming a meme, ‘كرز اند تفاح,’ has become a part of my identity. It’s something that people remember and associate with me, and it has added a unique dimension to my persona. On a personal level, it has taught me to embrace my imperfections and find joy in unexpected moments.”
What have you learned about yourself through this experience?
“I learned to take everything with a sense of humor. The internet laughing about something I did or said felt like an achievement. Through the circulating memes, I spread laughter and positivity, which made me happy. This experience taught me the importance of resilience and the ability to laugh at oneself. It also highlighted the significance of confidence and self-belief, which I realized I needed to work on.”
How has your perception of beauty and confidence changed since participating in the pageant?
“Confidence is everything. Unfortunately, I didn’t have enough of it before and during the competition. This experience made me understand that true beauty comes from within and is closely tied to one’s confidence. The pageant environment can be intimidating, but it also provides a powerful lesson in self-acceptance and inner strength. I’ve learned that beauty is not just about physical appearance but also about how you carry yourself and how confident you feel in your own skin.”
Advice and Insights
What advice would you give to someone considering entering Miss Lebanon?
“My advice to anyone considering entering Miss Lebanon is to focus on confidence, positivity, and kindness. These qualities are essential for succeeding in such competitions. Work on your posture and catwalk skills, and ensure you have a good general knowledge base. Training at home can make a significant difference. Most importantly, believe in yourself and have self-esteem. Confidence is the key to unlocking your potential and achieving your goals and dreams.”
How do you handle the pressure and expectations that come with being a beauty queen?
“Handling the pressure and expectations that come with being a beauty queen requires a strong sense of self-belief and confidence. It’s important to remember why you started and to stay true to yourself. Believe in your potential and remain focused on your goals. Having a support system of family and friends can also help you navigate the challenges and maintain a positive outlook.”
Lara’s journey through the Miss Lebanon pageant is a testament to the importance of confidence and a positive outlook. Her experiences and insights offer valuable lessons for anyone considering stepping into the world of beauty pageants.
