On Tuesday, Oct. 8, Angela Martinez, the reigning Ms. Hawaiʻi United States National, made history by being crowned Ms. United States.
HONOLULU (KHON2) — On Tuesday, Oct. 8, Angela Martinez, the reigning Ms. Hawaiʻi United States National, made history by being crowned Ms. United States.
This was a significant moment not only for her but also for the Hispanic community in Hawaiʻi, especially during National Hispanic Heritage Month.
Angela’s journey is inspiring, as it highlights her dedication to representation and advocacy for suicide prevention.
Angela grew up on Oʻahu in Kāneʻohe and attended Castle High School, graduating in 2008. She described her background as “Mexican, Okinawan and Caucasian. My father is Mexican and was born in Oakland, California. He moved to Oʻahu when he was 17 and raised us here.”
Growing up in a bilingual household, Angela spoke Spanish at home while learning English in school.
“I grew up in a Spanish-speaking household, so I had a hard time with speech,” she recalled. “I would go home speaking Spanish and go to school speaking English, which was challenging.”
Despite facing language barriers, Angela felt the warmth of her community. She noted that while she and her siblings often felt like outsiders due to their Hispanic heritage, they were always welcomed by their neighbors. “We were known as the Mexican kids growing up in our street,” she shared with a smile.
Angela’s experiences in Hawaii reflect a broader picture of the Hispanic community in the islands. While many people might not associate Hawaii with a significant Hispanic presence, approximately 25% of the state’s population identifies as Hispanic.
This rich cultural mix includes individuals whose ancestors came to Hawaii for various reasons, from work to family. Angela’s victory represents not just her personal achievement but also a celebration of that heritage.
When Angela entered the pageant world, it was an unexpected journey.
“I started the competition back in June, at the state level,” she explained. “I actually sold a car to one of the state pageant directors. For years, she had asked me to compete, but I was unsure.”
But it was her daughter who ultimately encouraged her to take the leap, and they made a pact to support each other throughout the process. “She helped me with my walk, pauses, and mock interviews,” Angela said.
Angela’s first pageant was a resounding success. “I won the state title and took home awards for Best Swimsuit, Evening Gown, and People’s Choice,” she proudly stated.
Following her win, she was nominated to compete at the national level, which took place in Memphis, Tennessee. “I was really nervous at first, thinking I wouldn’t continue to the national level,” she admitted. “But with support from my company and my family, I decided to go for it.”
The national competition was intense, with participants from various states. Angela faced the challenge head-on.
“I hired a pageant coach for four days to help me learn how to walk in heels and pose,” she explained.
The competition included four categories: interview, swimsuit, evening gown, and an on-stage question.
“During the interview, I had to be myself and share my platform,” she said. Angela chose suicide prevention, a deeply personal cause. “I lost two sisters to suicide, so it was important for me to use this platform to advocate for mental health awareness,” she revealed.
Her dedication to this cause set her apart from other contestants. “No one else had chosen suicide prevention as their platform, which surprised me,” Angela noted. “I believe it’s a topic that needs more attention. Everyone struggles, and it’s okay to ask for help.”
She was motivated to share her story and encourage others to seek support. and the moment Angela was crowned Ms. United States was a whirlwind of emotions.
“Winning was surreal,” she recalled. “It was so rewarding to know that my hard work had paid off.” With her new title, Angela aims to spread awareness about suicide prevention and mental health resources. “I want to advocate for change in schools and communities, using my platform to make a difference,” she said.
Angela’s plans for the future are ambitious. She intends to become a certified speaker, visiting schools and organizations to discuss mental health.
“I want to partner with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and continue my advocacy,” she explained.
She recently organized a successful event in her hometown, creating handmade poster boards with affirmations and resources like the crisis hotline, 988. “It was such a positive experience, and I plan to do something similar at the state capitol during the holidays,” she added.
As Angela reflects on her journey, she recognizes the importance of representation. “I hope that my success encourages others, especially those from diverse backgrounds, to pursue their dreams,” she said. “Being Hispanic in Hawaiʻi is a unique experience, and I want to show that we can achieve great things.”
Angela’s story is a powerful reminder that dreams can become reality, regardless of background or circumstance.
Her triumph as Ms. United States not only highlights her personal achievements but also shines a light on the significance of mental health advocacy.
With her determination and passion, Angela Martinez is poised to make a lasting impact, not just in Hawaii but across the nation.