Mrs. International Pageant Contestants

Mrs. New Jersey International®

Ellen

People's Choice Award

1. Which celebrity do you think you look like?
In my head, I look just like Lupita Nyong'o. Her grace, elegance, radiance, and ability to fully own her unique beauty is something I’ve always admired. She inspires me to live boldly and confidently as myself every day. That confidence is something I try to pass on to every mom and child I work with because there’s power in owning who you are.

2. Which do your prefer? Talking on the phone or texting?
Talking, for sure! I love a good phone catch up with my girlfriends or my husband. If we can’t talk, we’re definitely sending voice notes back and forth all day. I love reconnecting, laughing, and having a real pow wow, especially with my mom friends after a long day.

3. What’s something you only do when you get bored?
I make my husband sit next to me and watch all 100 Instagram reels I sent him throughout the day. Then we take advantage of the quiet moment to do a mental check-in with each other before eventually falling asleep together on the couch to Netflix. Boredom turns into a blessing of peace for me!

4. Are you overly loyal to any clothing brands?
I cannot get enough of Eliya The Label. I’m obsessed with midi dresses, and their designs have the perfect balance of fun, classy, and main character energy. I love the confidence and presence I feel when I put them on, and they’re the perfect contrast to my closet full of scrubs.

5. What is the biggest risk you have ever taken?
Raising 2 babies under 2 with 2 years left to defend and complete my doctoral dissertation! Becoming pregnant during that season felt impossible, and at times I truly thought I would fail. But my daughters helped me realize motherhood was never a burden to my purpose, it was actually the breakthrough I needed to walk confidently in it. Now, I’m passionate about helping other mothers pursue their dreams while still pouring into their families.