Chatham native Roxanne Bilski knows beauty is only skin deep, and knowledge is power.
She hopes to use her entrance in the Miss Canada World pageant this summer as a platform to help empower women.
Bilski, 24, holds a master’s degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice Public Policy from the University of Guelph.
She said she initially wanted to work in the criminal justice system and considered law school. Now she admits she has an interest in educational policy.
“It’s about how we can move forward with making education more accessible,” she said.
That passion led her to #OnHerTeam, which Bilski said is “empowerment through education for women.
“It’s about teaching women about various options they have available to them,” she said. “Often, they go into health-related fields or the arts. Not a lot consider sciences or mathematics. The gender wage gap really does extend from education.”
Through #OnHerTeam, Bilksi hopes to run seminars and workshops to help empower women.
“It all ties into my interest in public policy and passion for education,” she said. “I’m hoping to make a difference in policy and be able to work on some things that aren’t working and see what other countries, and even other provinces, are doing.”
Bilski said initially entering the regional competition for Miss World Canada – she will represent the Toronto Region – was a “pretty random” decision, inspired by past contest winners, who extolled body positivity and self care.
“It’s not all about physical beauty,” she said. “It does allow you to use your title to promote a platform.”
Bilski also sees it as an opportunity to get involved in the community. She said when she started working in Toronto – she’s a an advisor with Pearson Education in North York, coaching students who are completing graduate degrees online – she hit a bit of a life rut.
“I got into a routine when I got there – go to work, eat, sleep and repeat,” she said. “I used to be so involved in various extracurricular activities and be active. I think this (the pageant) will be a really good way to get involved in the community and give back. I’m hoping this experience will provide that opportunity.”
Bilski believes the possibilities are endless.
When opting to enter the regional pageant, Bilksi said it was a rather late decision, and she only had a month to prepare. The national pageant is six months away.
“I think I can definitely make it work. I just have to put in the extra effort,” she said.
Part of that preparation is returning to Chatham.
“I hope to make it back to Chatham for some off my favourite events. I’ve always really loved RetroFest and I want to get involved with Walk a Mile in her Shoes,” she said. “I’m interested in getting involved in other fundraisers as well.”
The national pageant takes place Aug. 12-18 in Toronto. Bilksi said there will be workshops, training, and publicity meetings on the agenda early in the week, followed by the pageant.
“I’m very excited. I can’t wait. I’ve got six months to prepare myself mentally and physically,” she said.
Bilski said she’s also looking for sponsors to help offset the costs involved to participate in the pageant. For sponsorship and invitations to community events, she can be reached at roxanneformissworld2018@gmail.com.
