A new Miss Castlegar will be chosen at the finale pageant on June 2.
But the pageant is just the final step in the multi-month Miss Castlegar program Candidates receive training in things like public speaking, modelling, current events, and time management. They also learn about city council, politics, Castlegar history, resume writing, and personal interview skills.
They also hear from guest speakers on topics such as nutrition, make-up/skin care, customer service/etiquette, women’s safety and awareness, and budgeting/financial planning.
Photos courtesy Kelsey Lee photography.
Hi, my name is Aydenn Batchelor. I’m a 16 year old student at Stanley Humphries Secondary School. I am a very energetic, fun-loving person. I was born in Victoria, B.C. I currently live in Castlegar with my large family of seven and two cats Mattress and Benten. I have two brothers and two sisters. There is never a dull moment in my household. I play volleyball, rugby and do cross fit. I also volunteer with my brother’s baseball team. When I’m not doing these activities, I’m either hanging out with friends or my family. I joined Miss Castlegar to have new experiences and to learn more about this beautiful community I call my home. I would like to say thank you to Carol Sommerville and my sponsor, the Royal Canadian Legion for all their help, generosity, and support.
Hello, my name is Lia Smith. I am a 17 year old grade 11 student attending Stanley Humphries Secondary School. When I am not concerning myself with school, I am either reading, hiking, or working on my artwork. I have always had a great fascination for art and for as long as I can remember I have been drawing and doodling wherever and whenever I could. It has been a great inspiration in my life with it being a calming and therapy tool. I loved going to Pines Bible Camp when I was little and would like to become a camp leader there. I want to contribute back to Pines for giving me such great childhood memories and I hope I can give kids the same fun experiences I had. I would like to study at the University of Calgary to become a neurosurgeon. Thank you to my mentor, Carol Sommerville, and my sponsor West’s Fashions.
My name is Cassidy Popoff. I am 16 years old and a grade 10 student at Mount Sentinel Secondary School. I live in the Slocan Valley with my parents Steve and Connie, my dog Cooper, and my cat Spooks. Throughout the last couple of years, I have completed getting my second-degree black belt in martial arts. In my spare time I enjoy being captain of Mount Sentinel’s Volleyball Team, reading and listening to country music. I am also a member of the Rotary Interact Club. My favourite subjects in school are science and French. When I graduate, I hope to continue my education in the health care program at UBC O. I joined the Miss Castlegar program to gain more confidence in public speaking, meet new people and create new friendships. Thank you to Mrs. Sommerville as well as my sponsor, Sunrise (2000) Rotary.
Hi, my name is Abby Lockhurst and I am a 15 year old student at S.H.S.S. I was born and raised in the Kootenays, and most of my family lives here. I come from a family of 5 and I am the youngest of three kids. My older sister, Kelsea, participated in the Miss Castlegar program and it inspired me to participate. My older brother, Ryley, has taught me that is good to give back to the community. My mom, Laura, has taught me that I can do anything I put my mind to. My dad, Shane, has given me the confidence that many people don’t have. I have a dog, a cat and two ferrets. I enjoy taking my dog on long walks, playing with my cat and ferrets, painting, playing sports and highland dancing. I work part time at McDonald’s and like spending time with my friends and family. After I graduate, I plan on going to college to become a psychologist. I would like to thank Carol Sommerville and my sponsor, KFS Inc.
My name is Makenzi St. Thomas. I am fifteen years old and currently a grade ten student at Stanley Humphries Secondary School. I was born and raised in Castlegar and live with my mom, dad, younger brother, and foster siblings. I also have three dogs and a cat. I am passionate about volunteering and take pride in my work with the Rotary Interact Club. I have been involved with the club for over three and a half years and currently hold the position of President. I enjoy spending time working out, playing volleyball, softball, and in the colder months snowboarding. I joined the Miss Castlegar program to push myself out of my comfort zone, to build my confidence, learn new skills and meet new people. When I graduate, I plan on attending post-secondary to obtain my business degree and doctorate. My goal is to open a private practice as a family physician. I would like to thank my mentor, Mrs. Carol Sommerville and my sponsor, Rotary.
Hi, my name is Abigail Brook Hunter-Oglow. I am 16 years old and currently enrolled at S.H.S.S. I live with my parents, Ken and Wanita along with two older brothers, Jaden and Taylor. I also have an older sister. I love to participate in gymnastics, snowboarding and volleyball. Though I enjoy quiet days in the coffee shop I work at, I have a true passion for adrenaline and adventure. Whether it’s zip-lining, cliff jumping, or roller coasters you’re sure to find a smile on my face. I have learnt to value my academic skills and hope to further my studies at the University of Victoria for architecture. I first joined Miss Castlegar in hopes to create a better relationship with my community. I have now built countless relationships with a variety of people I am lucky enough to call my friends and mentors. I would like to thank and appreciate Carol Sommerville for taking the time and effort to mentor my fellow candidates and I, along with Sun Life Financial for sponsoring me. I wish love and luck to all my fellow candidates.
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