From Survival to Service: Finding My Voice Through Pageantry

By Nazly Zoar

Growing up, my story began in a home shaped by resilience. My mother immigrated to the United States in search of a better life for us, but along the way, we faced the harsh realities of domestic violence. At a young age, I found myself navigating not only that trauma, but also a world where my mother didn’t speak English and relied heavily on me.

I stepped into a role many children should never have to becoming a translator, a protector, and in many ways, a second parent. While my mother was incredibly strong, hardworking and loving, there was an unspoken pressure I carried daily. At school, I was balancing academics while quietly holding the weight of my responsibilities at home. As a single parent household, we also relied on community resources like food banks and support services, which, at the time, felt overwhelming and humbling.

But through it all, my mother always showed me how to find light in the darkest moments. She taught me that receiving help is not something to be ashamed of, it is something that connects us as human beings. As I grew older, she encouraged me to give back through volunteering, and that experience transformed my perspective. It showed me the beauty in service, the strength in community, and the power of compassion.

Not long ago, my mother became a U.S. resident and I a U.S citizen, a moment that filled  us with pride and for me a renewed purpose. It inspired me to use my voice not just for myself, but for others especially women living in shelters due to domestic violence.

Through my platform, Sashed to Serve, I advocate for women’s rights, raise awareness, organize charity events, and work to distribute essential resources. One of my proudest initiatives includes providing menstrual kits and beauty supplies to women in need, because every woman deserves dignity, confidence, and the ability to feel like herself, no matter her circumstances.

Pageantry came into my life at a time when I was still finding my confidence. I was shy, unsure, and far from what I thought a “pageant girl” looked like I grew up on a farm and never considered myself particularly feminine. But through this journey, I’ve learned that femininity is not a mold it’s a choice, an expression, and a strength. Pageantry has shown me that I deserve to be seen, to take up space, and to have my voice heard.

It has also taught me that this is not just about competition, it’s about community. When every woman steps onto the stage with purpose, there is no rivalry, only opportunity. Opportunity to uplift, to collaborate, and to create meaningful change together.

Today, I continue to grow my platform with intention, using my voice and my reach to create impact. What once felt like hardship has now become my purpose and I carry that with me in every step I take.

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Nazly Zoar is the current Miss California Petite. You can follow her on Instagram. 

This is her first guest blog for Section 36 Forevers.