Pandora Thao, center, Miss Hmong Wisconsin 2023, is flanked by Paneng Thao, Miss Hmong Wisconsin 2023 2nd Princess; and Pa Voua Yang, Miss Hmong Wisconsin 2023 1st Princess. (Photo courtesy of Thao)
A University of Wisconsin Oshkosh alumna said her leadership role as Miss Hmong Wisconsin 2023 allowed her to advocate for Hmong youth, supporting them in their pursuit of life goals and dreams.
Pandora Paj Nra Thao of Madison, a spring 2022 graduate who earned a bachelor of science degree in sociology and an emphasis in social equity and diversity, reflected on her reign as Miss Hmong Wisconsin.
“My term did end on Dec.10; however, I am not stopping there. I hope to continue working within my Hmong community,” she said.
Thao said she never dreamed she would run for a pageant title. She remembered, as a child, watching young women compete in Hmong pageants. As she grew older, she realized that for her to have a chance to have a voice and be heard, she needed to start taking leadership roles to grow and develop her skills.
After graduating from UWO, she decided it was the perfect time and opportunity for her to pursue the Miss Hmong Pageant.
“Deciding to be a contestant for the Miss Hmong Wisconsin pageant was a challenge because I never had experience being on stage before,” she said. “It was a humbling experience competing with other ambitious Hmong women because we all had similar goals in our community.”
During her term, she enjoyed being able to meet, network and share experiences with others around her.
Thao said she is working at UW Health and living at home in Madison. In her free time, she volunteers and works to give back to her Hmong community. She plans to continue her education pursuing a master’s degree.
“For anyone who wants to try something new, go and try it,” she said. “If you never try, you would never know.”
Written by Laurie Schlosser
Link to original story: https://uwosh.edu/today/122266/thao-credits-uwo-education-with-skills-confidence-needed-as-miss-hmong-wisconsin-2023/