a chair . People see us as clumsy , ugly and unfit to perform social roles such as wife , mother or partner . I myself , for many years was a very active person . I was a tennis instructor , but also a woman and a mother . I did not agree with the image of people with disabilities that existed in the media and in people ’ s minds who , in most cases had no contact with people with disabilities . I didn ’ t want to allow stereotypes to form opinions about us .
What are the objectives of the contest ?
The main objective of the Miss World Wheelchair contest is to fight against social exclusion and by changing the image of women at the international level . In addition , exchange experiences between countries to promote changes inspired by countries where the situation of people with disabilities is good .
Do you think this project helps empower women with disabilities ?
Definitely yes . The Miss World Wheelchair contest in 2017 allowed women to strengthen their conviction that despite their situation , they are women of full rights and disabilities ; that they define their value as humans . The wheelchair is only an accessory for a person and does not define their personality .
What influence did Miss Wheelchair World have in 2017 ?
I believe that the first Miss World Wheelchair pageant in 2017 has opened the eyes , not only to me , but also to the rest of the participants to how much our situation differs according to the continent and the country in which we live . Some appreciate what they had while others realized that in their countries great changes are needed . During the contest , we published a guide on how to organize a national competition in each country . On this basis , countries where there is a need for change in society ' s mentality have created their own contests , among others Guatemala , Ecuador , South Africa and Mexico . I emphasize that competition is not only a simple choice of the most beautiful woman but it also brings with it a desire for change and the perception of disabled women as full women .
What do you think of Mexico as the current host country ?
In Warsaw , I had the opportunity to meet Karen Rocha , representative of Mexico , and a friendship started between us . The result of this was Karen ’ s appointment to the position of Director , Miss World Wheelchair Contest . I think that in Poland over the years there have already been some changes in the mentality of society in terms of the rights of people with disabilities and the situation has improved , but Mexico needs change in this area and greater inclusion of women with disabilities in social life on an equal footing as other people .
Any words for the new participants of the second edition of MWW ?
Never give up , listen to your heart and don ’ t let anyone tell you that something is wrong with you . You are just as intelligent , beautiful and have the right to start a family and realize yourself in all the areas of life in which you desire . Disability doesn ’ t make you worse , it only means that you move in a different way . You can be proud to be together with other participants creating positive images of women with disabilities . I ’ m glad that you are the change we want to see in the world .
What are the main values of MWW ?
I believe that to change the world , change must start with oneself and that is what we are doing . I believe a lot in the power of butterfly wings that is in the logo of the Miss World Wheelchair pageant and that we take small steps to change our situation and create a new quality of perception of women with disabilities and contribute to greater social integration .
What message would you give to all the women who view you as a role model and inspiration ?
Never let anyone tell you that you are worse . Look for answers in your heart to the question why you deserve love , a job and being a mother . In my opinion you are human and no wheelchair has the right to change that . I don ’ t think any of us asked for being disabled and if we could , we would get up and leave . Disability can touch anyone , any human being , accidents and diseases are part of life . Live in a way that makes your life the way you want it to be and follow your heart . You have the right to be happy , you just have to believe it .
Miss Wheelchair World USA 11