Woman Star World

Natalia Gontareva

Hello Queens! Whether you're already part of pageantry or simply dreaming of it, I hope my story speaks to you. Over the past five years, I’ve often been asked: "Is it really worth it? All the time, money, and effort — what did you actually gain?" My answer is yes. And here’s why...

People who changed my path
Pageantry gave me access to women from across the world — women I’d never have met otherwise. Each one brought a new perspective. Some became friends, others examples to learn from. I grew through conversations, gestures, and the quiet power of connection.

Confidence from the inside out
Preparing for a pageant transforms you. You stand taller, move with intention, and smile with purpose — even on difficult days. That energy becomes part of you. And yes, smiling does shift something deep within.

New digital skills I never planned to learn
I had no interest in reels, apps, or editing tools… until I needed them. Now, I enjoy creating my own content. It’s become a new form of self-expression — one I can use far beyond pageantry.

My kind of comfort zone
Some people relax in silence. I come alive on stage. Lights, music, an audience — that’s where I feel most at home. Coming from a family of opera singers, I know this feeling is real. It fuels you.

A way back to myself
When my youngest son was diagnosed with autism, I had to leave my job and devote myself fully to his care. My days became a cycle of clinics and therapies. Pageantry gave me a space to breathe, to recharge, and to feel joy again. It didn’t change my reality — but it gave me strength to face it with more lightness.

A platform to serve
Now I work with French charities and serve as a spokeswoman for the WIN (Women in Need) Foundation. I focus on supporting mothers of children with disabilities — women who are often overlooked. Pageantry gave me the reach to help more, and better.

More than anything, this experience has helped me evolve. Not into someone new — but into someone stronger, clearer, and more fulfilled.

 

Woman Star World Magazine
Cover 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