When I found out that I was going to be the delegate representing
my area I was ecstatic. I didn’t know what to think what to do I
just wanted the details and I wanted to start right away. Raising
awareness and spreading the word about an organization that was
collecting teddy bears and toonies to send to needy children who
aren’t as fortunate as we are was something that I wanted to be
involved in. My first stop was getting approval from the town of
Amherstburg, where I chose to represent and from there on I knew the
fun was just beginning.
I started a collection bin at a local store, had one set up at the
town where you could donate money and bears. A friend from the
pageant representing an area close to where I lived decided to get
together and do a car wash and a few events together to help in both
areas and they turned out wonderful. August was just around the
corner and we were so close to heading to Toronto to enjoy the
wonderful adventures ahead of us which was called Pageant Week.
Arriving in Toronto early that morning with a moving truck carrying
all of Teen Leamington and my own bears were anxiously surprised by
the mass amount of bears that had already been brought in by other
fellow delegates. There was thousands and thousands of bears and
that was only by the teens. As we sat waiting in the lobby for more
girls to arrive we started to get even more excited. Once all the
girls have arrived we got to endure the moment that we all were
waiting for, our sashes! Once we all got on our sashes we decided to
get dressed into nice clothing and we were going for a walk on the
town to go and eat some dinner.
After that we all started to settle down and enjoy and meet who our
roommates were and unpack. The following morning our rehearsals
started, we got fitted, and again we ate out. We received a photo
shoot by an amazing photographer, and took more pictures than you
can even imagine. We visited Horseshoe Valley Resort where we rode
segways, went on an off-road hummer ride, went tree top trekking,
rode the big zip line, rode ATV’s and it was so much fun. We went to
Niagara Falls and went on the Maid of the Mist and watched how
Niagara Falls became. We went to marine land and watched the Dolphin
Show and enjoyed the park. We went to see Jersey Boys on Broadway
and it was so good. We went to dinner and seen Greg Frewin Magic
Show as well. We did so much that we were so busy and had so much
fun.
We got to experience eating foods that we never ate before, doing
events that we could never dream of doing, wear things that we never
thought we would wear, learn things that you never would have
learned, received gifts that you couldn’t even dream of, take more
pictures than you could ever imagine, meet friends that you never
would have met because they are across the world and enjoy an
experience that you never could even imagine unless you experienced
it yourself.
Alyssa
Miss Teen Amherstberg International
“Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you have
imagined.” This is a quote written by Henry David Thoreau and it’s a quote I
base my actions in life around. Being apart of Miss Teen Canada International
was one of the most amazing experiences of my life. I got to be apart of so
many different things that I would have never been introduced too before. When
I first thought of entering this pageant I had no clue what to expect. I loved
the fact that this wasn’t a beauty pageant based on looks, but it was a pageant
based on girl’s inner beauty. Before being apart of MTCI I always loved helping
out in my community and school, but I never took on a task as big as being apart
of the Teddy Bears of Hope Project. It made me realize how fortunate we all are
in Canada. There are some children in the world that have never even seen a
teddy bear before and having one of their own could really change their life for
the better. It was a humbling experience and without MTCI I could have never
been apart of it.
Cassandra
Miss Teen Manitoba International
"Often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind
word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all
of which have the potential to turn a life around."
Lou Buscaglia
I took the challenge of collecting Teddy Bears and raising funds for the Teddy
Bears of Hope Campaign as an opportunity to demonstrate my communication,
fundraising and commitment skills. I started by talking to my High School
principal about the Teddy bears of Hope Campaign, I set up a display and drop
off box and the whole school got on board. I spoke to 4 elementary school
principals, set up drop off boxes and displays and spoke to many classrooms of
children about the Teddy Bears of Hope campaign, my role as a Miss Teen Canada
International delegate and how my life experiences to this point are helping me
to make decisions about my future. I explained that every decision we make along
life's path lead us in a certain direction.
I kept our local newspaper updated each week on my progress with Teddy Bears and
Toonies. The response from business' and individuals was enthusiastic and
generous. Children were parting with their loved stuffed animals so that a child
in Uganda could have something to hold on to and love. Adults handed over
collections of teddy Bears and business' handed over corporate bears , cheques
to cover the transportation and front windows for the Teddy Bears of Hope
Campaign displays. Along with my family, I organized the sale of Mr. Freezies
and popsicles at school, yard sales, a Canada Day bake sale and a car wash and
barbeque all to help in the raising of funds. As the word spread, daily I would
come home to a bag of stuffed animals at my door or a message that someone had
left to ask where they could drop off bears and
toonies, or an email from
someone who wanted to donate. Two little girls, in my community, had a lemonade
stand at their grandparents, and brought the $50.00 in proceeds to my home. A
woman, in Ottawa, who knits dolls to send overseas, adjusted her pattern so that
she could knit bears to donate to the campaign, a teacher in Ottawa sent a note
with her collected bears saying that these bears were all cleaned and ready for
their big trip to a new home, to be loved and a 10 year old girl collected bears
as an opportunity to fulfill a scout badge in volunteerism. A 93 year old woman
called to say that she wanted to donate the 2 teddy bears that usually sat on
her bed and a disabled man who lives in a nursing home had someone contact me to
say that he had a teddy bear to donate.
As I was being presented with a community involvement award and bursary at my
June High School graduation the Jr. B Timberwolves Hockey Team committee member
also handed me a Teddy Bear so that the audience knew that this was my current
charity. There have been many wonderful personal stories of sharing and caring
throughout this Teddy Bears of Hope Campaign experience.
Finally, after months of preparation pageant week arrived. From the moment I got
there I knew that it was going to be a an experience of a lifetime. I had the
opportunity to meet, and become friends with girls from all across Canada, they
are all truly amazing people. We all keep in touch and will hopefully reunite
some time in the near future! Being in the Miss Teen Canada International
Pageant was an amazing experience. From Broadway musicals, and a boat cruise,
to Niagara Falls and the Maid of the Mist, Marine land, and a Magic show to the
many adventures and activities at Horse shoe ranch. We travailed around the
Toronto area by subway, street cars, buses, and boats all week getting to know
one another, seeing the sights, and making memories. When we weren’t on route
from event to event or out for dinner the pageant delegates could be found in
educate class, learning and practicing one of our many dances, at makeup
seminars, or having our photo’s taken by MCI's official photographer. One evening there
was a show case of delegate talents- singing, dancing, public speaking, magic,
and so much more. The Gala evening came next, beautiful dresses, great music,
judges, family and friends came together for a magical night of excitement and
fun. Pageant day came fast, after a week of tones of dance practice, interviews,
and excursions the big day was finally here. The energy that surrounded us all
on pageant night was immeasurable, excitement, nerves, smiles and tears of joy
where shared. The show went off with out a hitch! Our dances, impromptu question
answers , and the crowning where looked upon by the audience and each other!
During the pageant production I was presented with the photogenic award, and was honoured to have been place in the top three.
I am grateful and thankful to have had the opportunity to be a delegate in the Miss Teen Canada International Pageant 2010. Working with the Miss Teen Canada International organization and the Teddy Bears of Hope Campaign I learned a lot about myself, and to take nothing for granted and to give back to those less fortunate!
“Teddy Bears are love, Teddy Bears are hugs, Teddy Bears are caring, Teddy Bears are sharing, Teddy Bears are hope, Teddy Bears of Hope!”
Delaney
Miss Teen Ottawa International
I would like to take this time to thank you and all the staff members who made the pageant an amazing experience. Honestly speaking, the
pageant was the best
experience of my life and I’m so grateful to you for giving me such a wonderful
opportunity. I truly admire your
dedication and your commitment in making the
pageant
run smoothly with tons of great memories that are going to stay with me
forever. Those 10 days during pageant week were so special and so memorable that
is it hard to put into words how much fun I had. During pageant week, each
minute, each hour and each day was a surprise. Those surprises were the best
part of those 10 days. Everything was so unexpected! It was beyond all our
expectations. All the hopes and dreams I had for the week all came true. I was
so amazed by all the hard work put into the pageant as well as so pleased to
meet the other contestants. It was truly an inspiration to hear everyone’s
experience on the Teddy Bears of Hope project.
I remember going back to school after the pageant and everyone asking me about my experience. I was pleased to know that people actually remembered the Teddy Bears of Hope project and were so interested in knowing more about it. It was an honour to talk on behalf of it and get the word out. The Teddy Bears of Hope was a very important part of my life as it made me more aware of those underprivileged children. I put my heart and soul into this project and was very pleased with the results.
The pageant was filled with excitement and nervousness. Everyone was so enthusiastic and anticipating every moment of it. Although I did not win the title, I did win the title of Miss Teen Friendship and Miss Teen Fashion. These awards meant a lot to me and were an honour to accept. Every contestant was so deserving that when the winner was announced; I was truly happy for them and wished them the best of luck. Thanks to you, Sylvia Stark, you made the hopes and dreams of many come true. What you are doing is honestly a great thing and I admire your efforts. I encourage everyone to participate in this because it really isn’t about winning, it’s about the experience and the amazing people you meet that give you that inspiration in making a difference.“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.”
Hiral
Miss Teen York Region International
My experience at Miss Teen Canada International was amazing. To be
honest at first I was scared leaving my parents for a week and not
knowing any body there, but the moment I got there everybody was
just so nice and we all had great stories to share. Everyone made
you feel at home, they were always there when you needed them.
During the week I learned to be more confident, which is very
important to me because I get nervous meeting new people. The best
part of my week was making great friendships with girls around
Canada. Thank you to everyone that made this week incredible.
Thank you
Jacqueline
Miss Teen Mississauga International
Pageant week was filled with wonder and lots of excitement from the moment I arrived to the day I left Toronto. Although each year is different, much fun awaits those delegates chosen to attend the pageant. The young women selected to represent their regions were so full of life – I shared many wonderful moments with the other delegates from eating delicious meals together to late night chats. I even went to visit Miss BC in Vancouver a few months after pageant. The organizers were very caring and professional and treated each delegate very well. Raising stuffed toys and money for the Teddy Bears of Hope organization allowed me to gain valuable fund raising experience and gave me a new found confidence in myself. Although hard work was involved it was so worth it to be able to participate in the MTCI 2010 pageant and make some very special friendships. I would highly recommend young women embrace this opportunity as it is truly an opportunity of a lifetime.
Diana-Karena
Miss Teen Eastern Ontario International
With huge support from my family, friends, and community I collected 2760 teddy bears, and 2,000 toonies. To raise the teddy bears, and toonies for the Teddy Bears of Hope Foundation I visited her local schools, radio stations, set up a booth in Wal-Mart, put adds in the paper, flyers around town, as well as Build a Bear. I even did an interview for Breakfast television. I was very proud from the strong support of everyone. The Miss Teen Canada International pageant was such a great experience. During pageant week I met new friends and hope that the friendship will last a lifetime. Going to the Horseshoe resort, going to the Greg Erwin magic show, watching and meeting the Jersey Boys, going to delicious restaurants, having a blast on a boat dancing to music, visiting the Niagara Falls, as well as having an awesome time on a party bus was one of the many things I got to do. We learned how to apply makeup, proper etiquette, a dance routine, and learned to just really be ourselves. I really appreciated that the MTCI pageant focused on inner beauty, and girls who are themselves. Coming into the pageant I had no idea what to expect and loved every minute of it. Coming out of the pageant I brought home more self confidence, inner beauty, and a stronger heart which allowed me to volunteer my time more. I am now a volunteer for Big Brothers and Big Sisters. I am a more determined young lady and will let nothing get in the way of achieving all the goals I have made for my future.
Katrina
Miss Teen Western Alberta International
How do I sum up MTCI? Well, how does one sum up an extraordinary,
life-changing experience? Not only was the pageant week in Toronto
incredible, but the months leading up to it. Working as a Teddy
Bears of Hope representative was an educating experience, and
completing my project was very rewarding. Throughout the pageant
week, I did not expect to become so close with my roommates, and the
other delegates, but I can happily say that the friendships and
connections made are still strong between many of us. The overall
week was always exciting, full of surprises, and very worthwhile.
Although I didn’t leave with the title of Miss Teen Canada Int’l
2010, I left with some amazing memories, new friends, and new
ambitions. Much thanks to the wonderful and supportive MTCI staff,
for making the week what it was!
My name is Keauna and I live in Ladysmith,
Vancouver Island, British Columbia. In the summer of 2009 I was given the title,
Miss Teen Vancouver Island. Being awarded the title is an extreme honour that I
highly value. I went to the National pageant, representing Vancouver Island. I
have nothing but pleasant memories from that pageant, and working with all the
wonderful staff. Keauna Miss Teen Vancouver Island International
Participating in the Miss Teen Canada International Pageant has been one of
the most rewarding experiences of my life. It was an honor to represent the
Province of Nova Scotia. MTCI provided me some many experiences and taught me
so many life lessons that I would not have had otherwise. MTCI taught me to be
confident, beautiful and proud to be a young Canadian teenager. Through my Teddy
Bears of Hope project, my eyes were opened to the struggles and hardships for
those who are not fortunate enough to live in a wealthy country such as our own.
The week in Toronto instilled in me the qualities and characteristics I will
need to succeed in the world. Although we were only together for a short time,
I made some of the best friends of my life. Girls that I had only know for a few
days knew me better than those that I have know my whole life. This opportunity
connected me with girls all over our fine nation. Now, no matter where I may go
in Canada, I will have a friend in every province. The memories and
friendships that I made here will last a lifetime. I am so grateful to have had
this opportunity, and I am truly happy for Suneet Mann, Miss Teen Canada
International 2010. I wish the best of luck to the future delegates, it will be
the best experience of your life! Tonya
Kayley
Miss Teen Southern Alberta International
Several members of the pageant staff were previous Miss and Miss Teen delegates.
They knew what we were going through. And they helped us through every step of
the way. Although they couldn't give anything away, they definitely had and
impact on us. They were prime examples of the kind of women we could become.
Sylvia Stark was a woman who amazed me. She wants to change the world. And she
wants to find the girls who can help her do that. Although she can only take one
teen a year, she would take all of us if shecould.
Pageant week is a very satisfying experience. You go there, not exactly sure
what to expect. It is a very scary experience. But when you get there, everyone
is so wonderful. You meet the other delegates and you instantly bond. But I
think the most important thing you gain from the pageant, is what you learn
about yourself. As a teen, I'm still trying to figure out who I am. I know that
this is a major struggle for many adolescents. Being at the National pageant
definitely helped me learn more about myself.
It was a week of self discovery. I noticed that after leaving the pageant I see
the world in a whole new light. I can see things qualities in people that I
didn't notice before. I have started thinking more globally, rather than the
local viewpoint I previously possessed.
The other delegates I met were amazing human beings. They wanted to be there to
help others. Not for the title, not for the recognition. But, because they
wanted to make the world a better place, and they knew being Miss Teen Canada
International 2010 was the best way to accomplish that. I formed friendships
that can't be broken by distance. I will always remember those girls, and their
efforts to change the world.
I will never forget my pageant days. It was a very enriching experience. I
learned a lot. And I have many new friends. Although I am not participating in
Miss Teen Canada International 2011, I will always be a MTCI girl. And I would
like to thank the wonderful women involved in the program for giving me that
opportunity.
Miss Teen Nova Scotia International
Caring
came natural to me as I come from a family of helping hands. When I first came
across the Miss Teen Canada International Pageant, I discovered that it suited
me very well and I had to take part in it. The Teddy Bears of Hope Foundation
really touched me. I am currently majoring in Child Studies and thought what
better way to practise what I know, then using it in real life to help real
children. I love to speak in public and I have a special place in my heart for
helping others. Once I was chosen to represent my province, the journey to a
lifetime of friendships and experiences began.
Getting myself prepared for pageant week was a great introduction to the event.
I truly enjoyed the whole process of collecting my Teddies and Toonies. Once I
arrived in Toronto, I was well prepared for the pageant. Arriving at the airport
and being greeted by the lovely delegates and MTCI staff was a great start. As
all the delegates started getting to know each other, we all discovered that we
are very similar. Even though we come from all over this beautiful country, we
all seemed to have something in common. The Miss Teen Canada International
Pageant has not only given me incredible experiences; it gave me the knowledge
to discover something about myself. Through this pageant, I learned that I can
do whatever I put my mind to. From beginning to end, this journey was one of the
best and this pageant is a beautiful memory that will live in my heart forever.
If there are other young ladies who are compassionate for caring about others,
they should take this opportunity to participate in this pageant for it is an
experience that will never be forgotten; not only for themselves but also for
the hearts they touch.
I want to take this opportunity to thank my family who are there for me; from
beginning to end. I would like to thank all my supporters for always believing
in me and encouraging me. A special thank you Sylvia Stark, all the MTCI/MCI
staff and the 2010 delegates as for if it wasn’t for them, my experience
wouldn’t have been as great as it was.
Love Always,