The Rise of Milla Magee
Milla Magee, the first Miss England in 74 years to resign from the competition, made headlines with her bold decision to walk away from the Miss World pageant. The 24-year-old lifeguard from Newquay, Cornwall, initially aimed to advocate for positive change. However, her experience unveiled a disturbing reality of how contestants are treated, prompting her to take a stand.
Encounters of Discomfort and Disappointment
During her time at the pageant, Magee expressed feelings of exploitation, stating, “I felt like a prostitute” as she and her fellow contestants were repeatedly paraded before wealthy sponsors. The expectation to entertain middle-aged men left her uncomfortable, culminating in her assertion that the event felt like they were mere objects of entertainment. Magee described the overall atmosphere as outdated and insisted that it was not aligned with the values of empowerment it claimed to represent.
A Call for Change in Pageantry
Magee’s exit brings to light significant issues within beauty pageants. Her assertion that the competition is stuck in the past resonates with many who see a need for reform. She emphasized that the focus should not solely be on appearance but rather on advocacy and making a difference. By advocating for change, she hopes to inspire young women to pursue their ambitions in environments that respect their dignity.
Milla Magee’s courageous move is a reminder of the ongoing need for progress in traditional institutions like beauty pageants. Her message is clear: beauty with purpose means more than just appearances—it involves genuine impact and respect for all participants.
