Search is on for Miss Teen Philippines Arizona 2024

Photo from Liesly Sandal/Facebook

Pageant season is in full swing, not only in the Philippines but also within Filipino communities across the United States.

In Arizona, Filipino American families are invited to act quickly as the registration deadline for the Miss Teen Philippines Arizona 2024 pageant is fast approaching.

A Facebook post targeting potential Fil-Am participants emphasizes the opportunity for invaluable training, exposure and cultural immersion promoting awareness of Filipino culture and heritage.

The post also includes a photo of Megan Diefendorf, Miss Teen Philippines Arizona 2016, along with the qualifications for aspiring contestants.

Requirements include being between the ages of 13 and 19, having Filipino heritage (at least 25 percent), residing in Arizona for six months prior to the competition and possessing talent, poise and a charming personality.

Nathalie Velasquez – an award-winning designer, director and choreographer – was unveiled as the director for the upcoming pageant, according to a separate announcement by Ihman Basas Esturco,

Originally from Chicago, Velasquez honed her skills in Arizona over two decades, teaching various dance forms from ballet to Filipino folk and directing over 10,000 students nationwide.

Since 2003, Velasquez has played key roles in various organizations and events. She co-founded the Filipino-American Youth Association (FAYA), the longest-running Filipino youth group in Arizona, where she served as president and producing artistic director.

Currently, Velasquez collaborates with the Deer Valley Unified School District and theaters across the valley as a choreographer and dance technician.

The grand coronation night is set for July 27 at the Grand Ballroom of the Talking Stick Resort.

In addition to Miss Teen Philippines Arizona, the search is underway for Miss Philippines USA 2024, the longest-running Fil-Am beauty contest held in the US. The organization invites candidates from across the United States who have the potential to represent and advocate for the Filipino American community.

Contestants vying for Miss Philippines USA must be aged between 20 and 28 and possess at least 50 percent Filipino heritage. Conversely, candidates for the Miss Young Philippines USA category must be aged between 14 and 19.