Published: April 1, 2025
Young girls and teens with disabilities will get their well-deserved moment to shine in the spotlight when the curtain rises on Sunday, May 18th for the 12th annual Miss Arc Broward Pageant.
Led by event co-chairs Natalie Glusman and Candace Kelley, the event is designed to inspire inclusion, empower and encourage young girls with disabilities, and provide a supportive environment where contestants can build confidence and foster lifelong friendships.
“This beloved event is more than just a pageant. It’s a movement that fosters inclusion and highlights the abilities and achievements of remarkable young women, proving to them that they can dream big and accomplish so much,” Glusman stated in a press release. “It is an opportunity to bring the community together to offer friendship and ensure that these young girls are seen and celebrated for who they are.”
This year, there are more than a dozen pageant contestants ages 6-17 from Broward and Palm Beach Counties vying for the Miss Arc and Little Miss Arc crowns.
“Over the past decade, the Miss Arc Broward Pageant has become a signature event in South Florida, drawing hundreds of attendees and strong support from local businesses, sponsors and volunteers for a truly unforgettable experience,” Arc Broward CEO Julie Price stated in a press release. “The pageant celebrates young women with disabilities and sends an important message that inclusion matters.”
Individual and corporate sponsorships, including presenting sponsor Princess Cruises, ensure that participation is free for contestants, who receive a variety of benefits, including professional photography sessions, confidence-building activities and events leading up to the pageant, along with an inclusive and welcoming environment and lifelong memories.
Last year, Kayla Mills was crowned 2024 Miss Arc Broward. Kayla used her platform to advocate for individuals with hidden disabilities. Through her advocacy work, Kayla educates the community on the importance of acceptance, accessibility, inclusion and understanding. And, Mikayla Golka, a Florida Panthers Superfan, was crowned 2024 Little Miss Arc Broward. Mikayla embraced the pageant as an opportunity to build confidence and make friends.
Community groups, high school clubs, workplaces and groups of individuals are invited to form a cheer squad for the upcoming Miss Arc Broward Pageant. Squads are encouraged to create colorful signs, bring their loudest cheers and help make the event even more magical for the contestants. More than 20 teen ambassadors representing high schools throughout Broward County are also ready to cheer on the contestants they have been matched with throughout the pageant. Teen ambassadors play a crucial role in the Miss Arc Broward
Pageant, providing mentorship and support to contestants throughout their journey. These dedicated volunteers help with rehearsals, assist contestants backstage and build meaningful friendships along the way.
The 12th annual Miss Arc Broward Pageant will take place at 2 p.m. on Sunday, May 18th at The Parker, 707 Northeast 8th Street, Fort Lauderdale. Tickets are available online for $18.75/person. For information call 954-746-9400 or visit http://www.arcbroward.com/miss-arc-broward
