Try something different. Step proudly out of your comfort zone.
That’s the message that Victoria Cabrera, Bridgewater’s contestant in the Miss New Jersey USA pageant, wants to spread.
The 20-year-old New Jersey native who is studying human resources and labor relations at Rutgers University, will be competing at the Hilton Parsippany from June 21 to 23 with 120 other young women for the crown.
She tells her story:
Bridgewater isn’t just a town; it’s a vibrant tapestry woven into the fabric of my life. From the moment I arrived, it felt like home. I was born in Manville, but my roots in Bridgewater run deep, intertwined with memories of soccer games and cherished family moments.
The soccer field was my sanctuary, a place where I could escape the complexities of life and immerse myself in the pure joy of the game. But when the tumultuous year of 2020 descended upon us, everything shifted. The pandemic brought challenges that tested my resilience, leading me down a path fraught with struggles, including the development of an eating disorder. However, in the midst of darkness, the light of Bridgewater’s community shone through, guiding me toward the support and resources I needed to embark on a journey of healing.
This became prolonged and stayed with me all throughout high school undiagnosed, until my senior year. Bridgewater-Raritan High School was more than just an educational institution; it was a nurturing environment where teachers like Valerie Bonnet became not only educators but also guardians of my well-being. Their care and concern extended beyond the classroom, ultimately leading to the intervention that set me on the path to recovery.
Despite my decision to bid farewell to competitive soccer and focus on the next chapter of my life—college—I soon realized that something was missing. It was during this soul-searching period that I serendipitously stumbled upon the Miss New Jersey USA pageant—a beacon of opportunity in the sea of uncertainty. What began as a leap of faith has blossomed into a transformative odyssey of self-discovery and empowerment.
This pageant is one of the larger state pageants. I filled out the online application and had a phone interview with the state director, Michelle Zoglio. Then, surprisingly, I was on my way.
At first, I didn’t know what I was getting into. It took me a few weeks to realize this pageant is not just about me. It was about showing off Bridgewater to the world and setting an example for other young women, telling them to explore new things.
And boy have I had my experiences—from the bustling runways of New York Fashion Week to the intimate gatherings with local sponsors, each experience has enriched my journey, molding me into the confident, resilient individual I am today.
I’ve now hired a pageant coach, Fanny Aberu, and have learned how to master my walk in seven-inch heels. Who knew that would be so difficult?
I’ve picked up sponsors all around Bridgewater, Somerville, Bedminster, Hillsborough and Raritan. I am working very hard to promote them and to add even more sponsors.
This town and community itself is beautiful. There are so many places to go, and I have created fond memories all throughout Bridgewater. I have found my lifetime best friends here.
I see my role as a contestant as giving back to the community that has given me so much. Even before moving here, I made so many lasting connections. This town is welcoming, and I’m proud to wear the Bridgewater pageant sash.
Navigating the intricacies of the pageant world has been a whirlwind, yet amidst the glitz and glamour, my heart remains firmly rooted in the values instilled by Bridgewater’s warm embrace. Through my platform, Body Freedom, I aspire to ignite conversations, raise awareness and extend a compassionate hand to those grappling with eating disorders—a cause close to my heart.
The Miss New Jersey USA pageant is a three-day event: There’s a closed-door interview with the judges, a cocktail and dinner party for the contestants and lastly the contest, where I’ll be wearing a swimsuit and my evening gown.
The winner, along with getting to represent New Jersey in the Miss USA pageant, receives a $2,000 cash award, full-tuition $2,500 scholarship to the Leap Foundation and an additional $200 cash award.
In the beginning, I was nervous about entering the contest, but now I am looking forward to competing. I feel confident because I have the most supportive family by my side, and with my parents and especially my siblings looking up to me I know I can accomplish anything.
The pageant scene is all very new to my family and I, but they have accepted it so very well and I am beyond grateful to have the best people around me while I am still exploring and trying new things and have them in the front cheering me on.
Hair and Makeup by Beverly Hills Hair Studio, Martinsville.
The pageant is about setting an example for young women.
Bridgewater is a vibrant tapestry woven into the fabric of my life.
