Samantha wins huge title

Vernon superstar Samantha Sewell is owning the stage.

The pageant queen was recently named Miss International Volunteer at the Miss Royalty International held about a week ago in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

"There were several different titles up for grabs and I won the International Volunteer title," Sewell says. "I've done  over 60 charitable events and over 80  local events, such as parades and different events like that."

"It was a complete honour and shock," she says. "When I got on stage everyone was hooting and hollering knowing that I wanted it so bad."

"It was overwhelming and exciting all at once."

Samantha was badly bullied throughout high school and she says came to pageantry as a way to be a role model for people who have also had to battle bullying.   

"Coming this far and speaking internationally, sharing my story, helping people all over the world, it's amazing," she says. "I never thought in high school, let alone four years ago that I would be here."  

She was the youngest contestant and the youngest age allowed to compete in Miss Royalty International.

Samantha has been accepted into Gallaudet University in Washington, D.C.

She is currently taking ASL and Deaf studies through the university online but will move to Washington in two years to finish her schooling.

The young woman is also a global ambassador for Live Out Loud Charity, which focuses on core character development, anti-bullying, and suicide prevention. 

Samantha would like to thank her sponsors 9 Round Vernon, Kelsey Raber Photography, Top Choice Pizza and L'Amore Bridal and Formals.

Vernonites can expect to see Samantha competing for Canada at Miss Universe one day very soon.