Yorkton teen takes Miss Eastern Saskatchewan

A 17-year-old Yorkton Regional High School Grade 11 student beat 11 other contestants in a bid to impress a group of judges at the annual Miss Teen Saskatchewan pageant on February 24, 2013.

Kennedy Todosichuk was crowned Miss Teen Eastern Saskatchewan 2013 during the high-energy competition at the Radisson hotel in Saskatoon.

It took Kennedy patience and plenty of preparation before having her crown firmly placed on her head.

The competitors were judged on attributes including photogenic quality, swimwear, behavior, fundraising and overall impression.

Kennedy scored high enough to be chosen as one of the eight semi-finalists from Saskatchewan, who are moving on to compete at nationals in Toronto over the summer.

"I am very happy to be representing the Yorkton community; there's a lot of very kind people and support," she said.

Contestants also have a set of responsibilities and a special platform they promote as a way to contribute to society. Kennedy's platform is "Play it forward," which encourages youth activism and everyday generosity.

In the middle of May, Kennedy will host events around town to fundraise for "Free the Children," an international charity that encourages youth movement. One of her planned events is the Zoombathon, where people of all ages will have a chance to dance for three hours and enter to win great prizes.

She will also be hosting a silent auction at the Ukrainian Orthodox Hall on June 8.

Competitors must spend a maximum of six weeks fundraising before nationals on July 13 to 20. At the competition, where Kennedy will face off a field of 50 to 70 contestants, her goal is to make the top 20. To increase her chances at a higher overall impression score, Kennedy is seeking support from the Yorkton community to raise over $400 for her charity.

Kennedy's current sponsors are: Simple shots by Jackie, Memories to Last a Lifetime, Parkland Printers. Kelsey Krause, Cottenie & Gardner and Source Embroidery.

Through Kennedy's experiences with pageants, she has been able to gain self-confidence. Her accomplishments have motivated her to serve those around her and contribute to her community. Kennedy is always looking for new sponsors and events to volunteer at.