“It’s not a beauty pageant or a model search!”

“We are a board of volunteers assisting young women to achieve their dreams through higher education,” says spokesperson Sylvia Stark, on behalf of the Miss Teen Canada International organization.

What makes this pageant different? “We are choosing a young lady to represent the youth of today, to be a role model and mentor,” says Mrs. Stark, adding that Miss Teen Canada International 2008 will travel throughout Canada visiting schools, hospitals, and seniors’ homes as well as attend special events, fairs, and festivals.

“To participate in this national scholarship achievement program," says Chomedey's Ashley Abramovitch, (Miss Teen Quebec and one of four delegates from the province), "approved candidates are required to obtain support from their communities through a sponsorship search, with each delegate expected to secure one or two major sponsors and about ten smaller ones."

“Sponsors get something out of this too,” Mrs. Stark specifies. “Major sponsors are listed under the delegate’s picture in the official event program, with smaller sponsors listed at the back.” A major sponsor might also invite the delegate to join in a company event, where she could greet costumers and participate in an ad campaign.”

The Miss Teen Canada International pageant, the largest scholarship achievement program in Canada, will take place on August 18, 2007, in Toronto.

"I'm looking forward to the experience," says Ashley, who's still searching for about a half-dozen sponsors to complete the conditions of eligibility.

"I chose to assist the Starlight Children's Foundation of Canada, an international non-profit organization dedicated to helping improve the quality of life for seriously ill children and help families deal with the ordeal of the children's situation," Ashley told Courrier Laval Weekly News.

Working in over 800 hospitals worldwide, the Starlight Foundation grants wishes to terminally-ill children (ages 4 to 18) and provides Fun Centers in pediatric hospitals for sick kids.

"I will assist the Foundation by helping with fund-raising and visiting sick children," Ashley explains. "Children are so important. They are the joy of their parents' dreams, helping remind adults that innocence exists. Their laughter is music to our hearts, their weeping fills us with sorrow. With the grace of God, I hope to bring a few laughs to these children," Ashley concludes.

Photo:Ashley 1

(Photo: Sam Abramovitch)