Alra Park resident Jezel Esbend (57) has been crowned second princess in the Miss Callies 2025 pageant, describing the achievement as one of her proudest moments.

Esbend is a mother, computer skills instructor, and long-serving community activist.

“I felt overwhelmed with gratitude when they called my name. It reminded me of every challenge I overcame to get here. I want the youth to see that dreams don’t expire. If you are willing to work hard, you can achieve something meaningful at any age,” she said.

Esbend said balancing motherhood, household responsibilities, community projects, and pageant preparation was not easy.

“Each role has shaped me into the woman who walked onto that stage. Serving the community is not just what I do; it is who I am. This crown represents the people I stand for. I believe my dedication to uplifting others helped me stand out in the competition.

“As second princess, my aim is to use the platform to broaden community work, especially in empowering women and young children,” she said.

Esbend added that the pageant’s experience has reignited her passion for personal development and community upliftment.

“Miss Callies reminded me that courage starts with stepping out of your comfort zone; that is where growth truly happens. I want to say to every woman, every mother, and every dreamer that it is never too late to reinvent yourself,” she said.