September 15^th is Guatemala’s Independence Day, and it is no small event on the calendar. Last week, UPAVIM celebrated the coronation of Miss Independence Day for UPAVIM School. This title is quite an honor; the winner represents her school, leading the way in our Independence Day marches. Competitors were selected by their classmates, one girl from each grade.

They compete in a pageant style contest with the cheering and support of their friends, families and teachers. The pageant included a challenge to fashion an outfit out of recycled materials into a dress that can represent Guatemala. The resulting outfits were incredible, no doubt due to their UPAVIM mothers!

The girls also took part in a talent round, a sports round and a question and answer challenge. There were some wobbles of stage fright, but over all the girls’ talents and beauty shone through.

Every single one of them should be so proud for being brave enough to compete.