Rhodessa Montano Belen celebrates empowerment and leadership

November 27 ------ Just days before gracefully passing on the illustrious title of Mrs. Asia Pacific Intercontinental 2024, Rhodessa Montano Belen found herself reflecting on a remarkable journey. It was a path rich with inspiring moments and transformative experiences that fueled her passion for celebrating empowerment and leadership.

"Last year, I was one of the winners at the Mrs. Asia Pacific International Pageant, a prestigious event that celebrates empowered married women from across the Asia Pacific," said Rhodessa during an interview. "The pageant promotes leadership, advocacy, and community involvement, showcasing not just beauty, but also purpose and heart."

The pageant is organized by Lumiere International Pageantry, headed by Ms. Quek Siew Bee, CEO and Founder, and the International Director of the Mrs. Asia Pacific International Pageant. Last year, the titleholders were Mrs. Asia Pacific Global 2024, Mrs. Asia Pacific Tourism 2024, Mrs. Asia Pacific All Nations 2024, Mrs. Asia Pacific Intercontinental 2024 (her title), and Mrs. Asia Pacific Cosmopolitan 2024.

Before representing the Philippines internationally, Rhodessa carried the title Mrs. Philippines Asia Pacific Global 2024. That year, the winners came from the Philippines, Japan, Singapore, and India. On Dec. 2–7, the stage is set for the Mrs. Asia Pacific 2025 competition in Singapore and Malaysia, with the coronation night on Dec. 6. "I’m truly honored to be part of this inspiring journey once again... this time, to crown one of the new queens," Rhodessa added. Let's learn more about her:

1) So far, how would you describe your reign as Mrs. Asia Pacific International?

My reign has been a transformative chapter of my life and a real journey of balance. I’ve had to juggle my family, my work as a software/data engineer, my responsibilities as a queen, and all the challenges in between. Stepping into this role pushed me outside my comfort zone and helped me discover strengths I didn’t know I had. It wasn’t perfect, but it was genuine. Every appearance, project, and experience taught me to lead with humility, serve with sincerity, and embrace being both strong and soft. This reign showed me how far I’ve grown and how much more I’m capable of.

2) What would be the most memorable part of your journey as a beauty queen?

The most memorable part of my journey is hearing from people, especially moms and working women, who tell me that my story gives them courage. I’m a mom, I have a demanding career, and I still chose to pursue this dream. Every time someone says they feel stronger or hopeful because of what I achieved, it reminds me that this journey is bigger than the crown. That impact is something I will carry with me forever.

3) How did being Mrs. Asia Pacific International empower you as a person?

Being Mrs. Asia Pacific International empowered me by reminding me that my dreams matter too. I’ve always focused on my family, my career, and my responsibilities, and sometimes I forgot about myself. This title reminded me that I am allowed to grow, to shine, and to take up space. It made me emotionally and mentally stronger, and it proved that women like me, who balance so many roles, can still rise and succeed. It showed me a strength I didn’t realize I had.

4) What have you learned in your pageant journey?

I learned that growth happens when you step beyond your familiar limits. As a mom of three, I realized that patience, resilience, and believing in myself are essential, not only in pageants but also in raising my children. This journey taught me that even under pressure, whether on stage or at home, staying genuine to yourself matters far more than being perfect.

5) Take us back to the day you won the crown. What was the feeling like?

It felt surreal, nervous, happy, and almost unbelievable. The first thing that came to my mind was how proud I was of myself, and that my husband and loved ones would be proud and happy for me, too. At that moment, everything I worked for seemed to align perfectly. I felt overwhelmed with gratitude, not just for the crown, but for the journey and everyone who believed in me along the way.

6) Your message to the next Mrs. Asia Pacific International.

To the next queen: You don’t have to be perfect to make a difference. Bring your story, your heart, and your purpose. Stay humble and open to learning, and always appreciate the love and support of those around you; they will inspire you to shine and lift others. Use the crown not just to be seen, but to touch lives. Treasure every moment of this journey, because it will shape you in ways you cannot imagine.

Source: mb.com.ph