Miss Bulgaria 2023: A New Chapter for Iliyana Borisova
Iliyana Borisova’s rise to the Miss Bulgaria crown started with her victory at the Miss Shumen competition. Winning the title of Miss Shumen opened the doors for Iliyana to compete in the national finals, where she captivated audiences and judges alike with her grace, intelligence, and vision. Her journey from a regional titleholder to Miss Bulgaria 2023 was not only a testament to her beauty but also to her determination to carve out a career in the world of fashion.
Becoming the first Miss Bulgaria to replace a reigning titleholder has added an extra layer of responsibility to her reign. Yet Iliyana has embraced this with confidence, focusing on her mission to inspire young women and make her mark in the fashion industry. With a passion for turning her love of fashion into a full-fledged profession, she is determined to use the platform Miss Bulgaria provides to showcase her talents and connect with global fashion communities. Iliyana is determined to make her reign meaningful, not just for herself but for the many girls who see her as a role model.
An exclusive Interview with Miss Bulgaria, Iliyana Borisova
Looking back, what are your most vivid memories of participating in the local Miss Shumen pageant?
Reflecting on my experience in the Miss Shumen pageant, the most vivid memories include the camaraderie among contestants and the excitement of the final night. The support we offered each other created lasting friendships, making the competition feel like a shared journey.
When you won the Miss Shumen title, how did that victory change your outlook on competing in beauty pageants and inspire you to aim for the Miss Bulgaria crown?
Winning the Miss Shumen title was transformative; it ignited my passion for pageantry and boosted my confidence. It made me realize that I could aim for higher titles, like Miss Bulgaria, and inspired me to embrace opportunities for personal and public growth.
How was the experience of stepping into the final of Miss Bulgaria, coming from a local competition? What were the emotions and expectations that came with that shift?
Stepping into the final of Miss Bulgaria was both thrilling and nerve-wracking. The scale of the event was much larger, with heightened expectations and a broader audience. I felt a mix of excitement, pride, and responsibility, knowing I represented my hometown.
What was your initial reaction when you learned you’d be stepping into the role of Miss Bulgaria 2023?
When I learned I’d be stepping into the role of Miss Bulgaria 2023, my initial reaction was a blend of disbelief and joy. It was an honor to take on such a significant role, and I felt ready to embrace the challenges ahead.
How do you feel about being the first Miss Bulgaria to replace a reigning titleholder, and how has that shaped your approach to the title?
Being the first Miss Bulgaria to replace a reigning titleholder has shaped my approach significantly. I see it as an opportunity to create my own path while respecting the legacy of those before me. It motivates me to redefine the title and show how it can evolve.
What are the main values and messages you want to promote during your reign as Miss Bulgaria?
During my reign, I aim to promote values like empowerment, kindness, and resilience. I want to inspire young women to embrace their individuality and pursue their dreams, while also advocating for social issues close to my heart, such as education and mental health awareness.
What do you think makes Miss Bulgaria more than just a beauty pageant, and how can beauty queens today use their titles to drive positive change?
Miss Bulgaria represents more than just a beauty pageant by promoting cultural values, social responsibility, and empowerment. Beauty queens today can leverage their titles to advocate for important issues, raise awareness about social causes, and inspire young women to pursue their dreams.
Bulgaria has a rich culture and history. What aspects of Bulgarian heritage are you most excited to showcase on the international stage?
I’m excited to showcase Bulgaria’s vibrant traditions, such as our folk music, dance, and unique crafts. The rich history of our festivals and customs reflects our identity, and I want to share that cultural heritage on the international stage.
In a world where beauty standards are constantly evolving, what does true beauty mean to you, and how do you want to redefine beauty through your reign?
To me, true beauty transcends physical appearance; it encompasses confidence, kindness, and authenticity. I aim to redefine beauty by celebrating diversity and encouraging others to embrace their true selves, showing that inner qualities shine brightest.
What advice would you give to young girls across Bulgaria who look up to you as a role model?
To young girls across Bulgaria, my advice is to believe in themselves and pursue their passions fearlessly. Embrace your uniqueness, and don’t be afraid to express who you are. Remember, your voice and actions can inspire others.
After your reign as Miss Bulgaria, what are your future goals, and how do you envision continuing to influence positive change in Bulgaria and beyond?
After her reign, a Miss Bulgaria might aim to engage in philanthropic work, support educational initiatives, or champion health and wellness programs. By using her platform to address pressing societal issues, she can continue to make a positive impact both in Bulgaria and globally.
Thank you, Iliyana, for sharing your journey with us. We’re excited to see what new paths you’ll explore in the future!
A Legacy Beyond the Crown
Iliyana Borisova’s journey as Miss Bulgaria may have started with her success in local pageants, but it’s clear that her ambitions reach far beyond the year of her reign. While her tenure as Miss Bulgaria began at the end of 2023, following the crown’s removal from the previous Miss, leaving little time to fully develop her path during the official term, this title has set the stage for her future. The experience and platform provided by Miss Bulgaria have equipped her to pursue her passion for fashion on a global scale.
Miss Bulgaria is not just a one-year contract; it’s a springboard for a lifelong journey. For Iliyana, this title is a gateway to broader opportunities, allowing her to continue influencing the fashion industry and empowering young women long after her reign concludes. As she steps into new chapters in her life, Iliyana’s role as Miss Bulgaria will serve as both a personal milestone and a lasting legacy, opening doors for the future of her career and inspiring others to follow in her footsteps.
