Hello everyone! My name is Bella Cathcart, and I've been a proud resident of Ford's Colony for over a decade. Currently, I'm a student at the University of South Carolina, majoring in sociology and public health, with a minor in medical anthropology. As of June 2023, I've been crowned Miss Columbia SC USA 2024 and was honored to compete in the Miss South Carolina Pageant in North Charleston on June 14th.

My inspiration to compete in this pageant stems from my love for dance. For 16 years, I was an avid dancer, and due to the COVID-19 pandemic, I never had the chance to formally bid farewell to the stage. It was Michelle Yeoh's acceptance speech at the 2023 Oscars that struck a chord with me when she said, "Dream big and dreams do come true, and ladies… don't let anyone tell you that you are past your prime. Never give up." Those powerful words, coupled with the unwavering support of my loved ones, gave me the courage to return to the stage where I once called home, and to inspire others that it's never too late to chase their dreams.

Contrary to the common perception of pageants as mere displays of glitz and glamour, involving heavy makeup and hairspray, my first year in pageantry has taught me that being a titleholder is about representing your city and being present for its people. This journey has completely changed my mind about the stereotypical beauty pageant woman, whom many perceive as competing solely for the crown and sash. Instead, I've learned that the pageantry world is filled with like-minded women who share a desire to make a positive difference and be agents of change.

What I aim to instill in young women is the belief that they can be whoever they dream of being, for their dreams have no expiration date. Pageantry demands hard work and determination within the community you represent. It's a gift to manage my time between academics, volunteering at Harvest Hope, Transitions Homeless Shelter, and Sistercare (a shelter for domestic abuse victims), being a leader at Shandon Baptist Church where I teach lower classmen about the Gospel, and singing as a lead vocalist in the Modern Church Team – all showcasing my love for the City of Columbia.

Through these diverse experiences, I've come to understand that pageantry is not just about external beauty, but rather about inner strength, resilience, and a commitment to serving others. It's a platform that empowers women to use their voices and talents to create positive change in their communities and inspire those around them.

Representing the United States in the world of pageantry would be a profound honor and dream come true. As the daughter of a retired Navy Chaplain and a proud Salvadoran immigrant, my parents' love for this nation has instilled in me a deep appreciation for its values and a fervent desire to contribute positively to its betterment. Their sacrifices and unwavering patriotism have inspired me to be a helping hand, dedicating myself to making this country greater, one day at a time, through acts of service and compassion. The opportunity to grace the national stage would allow me to exemplify the diversity and resilience that define the American spirit.

Most Respectfully,
Bella Cathcart, Miss Columbia SC USA 2024