Meet you Queen: Daiquiri Martina Gilbert

 Today I have the honor of interviewing Queen Daiquiri Martina Gilbert. I've known Daiquiri for about 13 years and have watched her go from young lady, to young woman, to wife and mother to Ambassador.

1. What is your current title?

 Miss American Beauties Plus Ambassador

2. How did you feel when you were crowned?

Funniest story. As everyone already knows the Miss category was the final category to be announced for the night. I at that point was already an emotional mess because all my OHIO team already won their titles (all first time national winners)...woohoo...I was gunning for top five and was relieved when the first name was called. A few names later I was tapped by fellow rhinestone sister, "Umm...There are only two names left." And before I could figure out what was the meaning by her statement, my name was called by the announcer for the title of Miss American Beauties Plus Ambassador. I immediately thanked God, my mentor Key Mckinley and then the Judges for this opportunity.

3. What does being miss American Beauties mean to you?

The title of Miss American Beauties Plus Ambassador holds a special place in my heart because it is my first national title. To me it means that I was CHOSEN for the job of representing the pageant on a national level. A true Honor.

4. Do you have a platform or charity?

My platform is E.D.G.E. Encouraging Determination Gains Education. With my platform I am encouraging childhood literacy through community volunteerism. I focus my volunteer hours on encouraging literacy in children because too many children depend on after school programs for tutoring, life guidance, meals and mentoring.


5. What do you hope to gain by your participation in pageants?

I believe that there is a need for full figured pageants in today’s society because they instill core values that today’s society is missing. Full figured pageantry teaches confidence, poise and how to be a team player all aspects for being a well rounded woman. All the qualities that I strive to master one day at a time.

 

6. Is you family/partner supportive through your journey?

My family members are my BIGGEST cheerleaders. They are my 24 hr 7 days a week 365 days a year team glam squad. I love them all.  

7. How do you feel about title holders who pose nude, semi-nude?

In most reputable full figured pageants it is frowned upon to posed nude/ semi nude because most are Christian based family organizations. However, I feel at the end of the day, it is not my place to judge others. I believe in my purpose which is to be an inspiration to others. Although I have no plans to be a nude/ semi-nude model, I am an unapologetic full figured diva that is proud of my curves.

8. What titles have you held?

My titles previously held in order are Mrs. Ohio Plus America 2009 & 2010, Miss Ohio American Beauties Plus 2013 and currently Miss American Beauties Plus 2013.
 9. How do you feel about "pageant hopping", going from state to state within the same pageant system to compete?

The slang term is “Crown Chaser” -Pageant hopping (competing in multiple pageants) within the same reign (year). I feel is a good way to not be taken seriously by peers and judges. I say this because it truly takes a full year to prepare with wardrobe, makeup, appearances, sponsorships, coaching, ect. And in my opinion if you are willing to “give up” on your goals that easily then you are not prepared for the overall responsibilities that come along with the CROWN.

10. What made you compete in your first pageant?

 I first started competing because I saw there was a need for a positive outlet for us fuller figured women in Columbus, Ohio and I wanted to make an impact.

11.How long have you been competing? What was your first title?

My first national plus sized pageant was in 2009. Seems like I have been competing/ training forever..lol And I love it!