Yvonne Welsh, Miss Hampton Beach 2025, reflects on her meaningful year as she prepares to pass the crown. Welsh, a Lowell, Massachusetts native, spent her reign volunteering at community events, including the Seafood Festival and the Lowell City of Lights Parade. She describes Hampton Beach as a special place from her childhood, a 'third space' where she can be her authentic self. Welsh's love for the beach stems from her family's tradition of visiting, enjoying activities like swimming, arcades, and, of course, fried dough.
As Miss Hampton Beach, Welsh won her first pageant and had the opportunity to meet and inspire many people. Her reign included memorable moments like volunteering at the Children's Festival, marching in the Lowell City of Lights Parade, and attending nearby pageants. Welsh also judged the Lobster Roll Eating Competition at the Seafood Festival, finding the various methods people used intriguing.
The pageant's tradition of passing a 'WWE-style belt' from one winner to the next resonates with Welsh, who sees it as a symbol of the crown's passing. Welsh's dedication to her role as an ambassador is evident in her efforts to promote pageantry to young girls in Lowell. She emphasizes the importance of pageants as a platform for advocacy and community support.
Looking ahead, Welsh plans to continue competing in pageants, both locally and potentially in major events like Miss America or Miss Volunteer America. She has recently completed her master's degree and started a new job at Assumption University. Welsh's close relationships with Little Miss Hampton Beach Victoria Mello and Junior Miss Hampton Beach Estelle Carr have developed over the past year, and she celebrates their accomplishments.
Welsh's perspective on pageantry is unique, emphasizing the community and support it fosters. She encourages anyone interested in competing to give it a try, emphasizing that pageants are about personal growth and what you bring to the table. Welsh's journey as Miss Hampton Beach 2025 is a testament to the power of representation and the impact of community involvement.
