Cover Story Woman Star World Magazine

Maria Camilleri

Some wear crowns for recognition. I wear mine as a reminder that every woman deserves her moment.

For as long as I can remember, my days have followed a steady rhythm. I’ve built a life I’m proud of — a fulfilling career, a warm family, deep friendships, and a strong presence in my local community. From the outside, it all looks perfectly in place. And it is. But something quiet was calling.

This year, I chose to answer that call by entering the Mrs. Malta Classique 2025 title — a platform within the international Mrs. Globe® system that honours the strength, poise, and achievements of women aged 45 and over. It’s a space where elegance meets purpose, and where life experience becomes the crown’s most valuable jewel.

It’s not a mid-life crisis. It’s a mid-life decision to say yes to adventure, elegance, and a touch of sparkle.

I’ve never been on a stage before. I’m not an actress, not a performer, not someone who seeks attention by default. And yet, there was something magnetic about the idea of exploring this world — not to become someone new, but to reconnect with the parts of myself that everyday life sometimes tucks away.

Some might view this as unusual, even unnecessary. I’ve heard the familiar lines: “Why now?” “Isn’t this a bit of a late detour?” But I see it differently. This experience isn’t about reliving youth or chasing applause. It’s about reawakening a spark — that feeling of doing something for yourself that is completely outside of your usual role.

I believe every woman, at some point, deserves to feel seen in a different light — even by those closest to her. My husband and son have always seen me as a strong, reliable presence, and they’ve supported me every step of the way. Still, I hope that through this experience, they also discover a version of me that is bold, expressive, and radiant in a new way.

I didn’t enter the pageant to become someone new. I entered to meet the sides of me I hadn’t met yet…

What excites me even more is the opportunity this title gives me to serve as a voice. Not just for myself, but for women in my age group who have so much to offer — and yet often find themselves stepping back. The pageant world isn’t only about beauty and gowns. It’s about platforms, advocacy, and presence. Through this, I aim to lend my voice to projects and causes that matter, and to encourage other women to rediscover the joy of being seen and heard.

I entered the Mrs. Classique pageant not to prove anything, but to experience something new. To the women reading this who feel they’ve ticked all the boxes in life — remember, it’s not about rewriting your story. Sometimes, it’s about adding one more chapter… just because you can.

And then, of course, there’s Malta — my home and my inspiration. Representing this beautiful island means carrying with me its heritage, spirit, and unmatched charm. From its rich cultural festivals to the timeless beauty of its stone cities and Mediterranean coastline, Malta isn’t just a backdrop to my life — it’s a character in my story.

Woman Star World Magazine
Cover Story Woman Star World Magazine
Cover Story Woman Star World Magazine
Woman Star World Magazine
Cover Story Woman Star World Magazine
Cover Story Woman Star World Magazine