Sometimes, you meet people, and you immediately know those people are solid folks destined to do good in this world. Such was the case when I met Courtney Pieta and Katrina Pittman, the dynamic duo behind Mountain Women of Empowerment. Mountain Women of Empowerment is a new pageant system serving Appalachia, but it isn’t what one typically associates with pageantry.
The ladies mentioned how a lot of people see pageants and think about reality shows with stage mothers throwing tantrums and bratty, overly made-up contestants behaving badly. Courtney explained, “That’s not what we’re aiming for. We are aiming for the empowerment of the woman. We are aiming for a safe space where anyone can come in and they can feel comfortable while competing. Pageantry is fun, but competing is very stressful. We are striving to be a company where women can feel welcome and also safe being in pageantry.”
The ladies know what they’re talking about. Both have extensive experience competing in pageants. They’re also neurodivergent, and part of their mission in creating a safe, welcoming pageant environment stems from their experiences. Katrina said, “I don’t like how pageant systems will have pageants specifically for people with disabilities because that feels alienating. Like, why can’t I also do these with everyone else? That being said, it’s really hard sometimes to navigate the social dynamics in that climate, so that’s also been kind of a barrier for both of us.” That became the drive for Mountain Women of Empowerment’s mission to create an inclusive, diverse pageant environment.
Not only are Courtney and Katrina working to break barriers for those who may not feel safe or welcome in the pageant scene, but they are also using their experience to do good in their community. The ladies recently wrapped up their online “I Love My Furry Friend” pageant, which raised enough money to make treats for the residents of the local animal shelter (Greenbrier Humane Society.)
On March 30, the ladies are presenting the Miss Appalachian Spring Pageant at 1:00 p.m. at Rhema Christian Center. A percentage of the entry fees will benefit GHS. Donations (monetary and supplies) will also be accepted for the Humane Society the day of the pageant. Entry fee will either be $5 or one donated item (you can see the GHS wish list on the Mountain Women of Empowerment’s Facebook page.)
When asked about Miss Appalachian Spring, Courtney emphasized, “It’s a safe place. It’s not going to be your typical pageant day, it’s not going to be stressful. It’s just easy. One outfit, no interview, just you. It’s based solely on you: How you reflect on yourself, and how you show the world how confident you can be.” Katrina added, “Imagine your ideal pageant day, and then make that easier.”
Not only does the pageant promise to be a fun, relaxed time for people from newborn to adult, there will also be an information table on how folks can get involved in volunteering, and a couple of puppies are even joining the festivities. A GHS representative will also be on hand to speak about their organization and what they do.
When asked what they love most about what they do, Courtney said, “Changing the entire face of pageantry. It’s so much more than what people initially think when they hear the word ‘pageant.’” Katrina said, smiling, “Pageantry is so much more than glitzy pageants and giant crowns. That’s what’s referred to as a hobby pageant. We’re kind of taking a different spin on hobby pageants, where we still have the big crown, but it’s whatever outfit you want to wear. You don’t have to have a $600 dress. We want this to be a very entry level pageant, but still with the big crowns and big rewards. That’s the fun part of it, right?”
When asked what the main thing they’d like people to know about Mountain Women of Empowerment, Katrina thoughtfully answered, “When it comes to pageants, it can be really hard to get through that first door. We want to make that easier. We are trying to foster the most inclusive and empowering environment possible. We want all women – shapes, sizes, neurodivergency, disabilities, color, everything – we want them here with us. We really, really want people to know that there is a community where they will be welcome. There is a place for them. No matter who you are, we will have a place for you.”
For more information on Mountain Women of Empowerment, visit their Facebook page. To learn more about the upcoming Miss Appalachian Spring Pageant (there are entry categories for multiple ages, and for girls and boys), and the Mountain Women of Empowerment Facebook page. There is also a QR code on their page. You can also email the ladies at: mwoepageants@gmail.com. Deadline to enter is March 23.
