Miss New Bedford : ‘Take That Risk’ and Sign Up to Compete

The Miss New Bedford Pageant is hosting an informational session about its upcoming competition. It is happening on August 25, 10 a.m. to noon, at Cheryl McCormick Academy of Dance on Tarkiln Hill Road in New Bedford.

Anyone who wants to become the next Miss New Bedford or Miss New Bedford Teen should plan on attending.

"You can truly meet all of the women you'll be competing against," current Miss New Bedford Emma Gendreau said. "It's a great way to get a sense of that sisterhood."

Gendreau encourages any young lady considering a run for the title to give this informational session a shot.

"I was in that same spot last year. It was right around this time in August that I was on the fence."

Gendreau said she had always wanted to be Miss New Bedford for as long as she can remember.

"I was born and raised in the City of New Bedford and had been around the program for so long, but I was nervous. I was a sophomore in college. I had a lot going on, but I am so glad that I had someone to nudge me to take that step," she said. "You never know what's on the other side. You truly have nothing to lose by competing and everything to gain."

How Was Gendreau's Year as Miss New Bedford?

"It was everything I had hoped for and more,"Gendreau.  "I have met so many incredible people and have attended so many amazing events.  I've had the opportunity to create so many relationships that would have never been able to create at my age."

Gendreau says she wants to go into the field of special education, and this year she was able to focus on educating parents and caregivers about special education.  She's also been able to establish relationships within the field.

Miss New Bedford Age Requuirements

To compete in the Miss New Bedford Teen pageant the age range is 14-18 years old.  The age range for Miss New Bedford is 18 to 27 years old.  An 18 year old is allowed to choose either competition as long as they are not older than 18 at the teen state competition.

Questions can be emailed to info@missnewbedford.org.