Mrs. International Pageant Contestants

Mrs. Florida International®

Melissa Parker

People's Choice Award

For what in your life do you feel most grateful?
I am most grateful for being blessed with time to live, love, learn and grow alongside my beautiful family - my husband Ted and our two children, Brendan, and Carson. Having my entire extended family living in the same town is an added bonus! Big holiday celebrations and fun traditions to enjoy every year is magic; I am so thankful for the loving support of my family, my village.

What is the biggest change you want to make in your life?
I want to help people come together; to show them the beauty in being unified, kind, and respectful of one another. Since starting our non-profit, The Parker Foundation for Autism and Child Development in 2015 alongside my husband Ted, this has been one of the greatest outcomes of our fully funded, inclusive programs. It gives me hope that our work is making a lasting, positive impact for generations to come!

What do you think is the best feeling in the world?
Never giving up on your hopes and dreams, and finally seeing them come to fruition, in my opinion, is the best feeling in the world! Anytime you set the bar high and push yourself beyond the limits of what you thought once were attainable, overcoming fears long the way…THIS is true victory and a story to be shared as inspiration for others.

What was the single, best realization you have ever had?
The beauty of FAITH! When anxiety or fear tries to sneak in and rain on my parade – I remember how far I have come and everything I have achieved. Faith grounds me; when I am full of faith, I am confident in myself, my abilities and in God’s timing for my life.

What sound do you love?
I love the sound of children laughing and playing! The sense of wonder, curiosity and pure joy takes me back to the carefree times of childhood. I think that is why I enjoy our work through The Parker Foundation so much; I want ALL children to know the sparkle of friendship and being included and valued. Having this strong foundation builds self-confidence and a greater understanding of the strength of community.