Scottsdale native Sophia DuBois is all about overcoming obstacles and inspiring others to do the same. When she graduated summa cum laude from Arizona State University with a degree in communication and film media production in May 2020, the pandemic put her dream of joining the entertainment industry on hold. So, she became an entrepreneur and started Buzzworthy, her own film and production company. Likewise, when she went through a major life change, she decided to flip the script and try something new.
“This was my first time ever considering a pageant, let alone running for one,” she says. “I got out of six-year relationship and felt like I needed to do something for myself. I felt very alone and thought this would be a good way to bring up my confidence and meet amazing women.”
Now, DuBois proudly represents us as Miss Scottsdale 2021, where her platform is emotional abuse awareness. She also made it to the runner-up position in the Miss Arizona For America Strong pageant.
Q. Why did you decide to go for these titles?
A. I was born and raised in Scottsdale, so I thought it would be fitting if I was Miss Scottsdale. After being named Miss Scottsdale, I wanted a bigger platform to educate others on emotional abuse.
Q. Why did you choose emotional abuse awareness as your platform?
A. I was emotionally abused in my last relationship. Although you aren't physically hurt with emotional abuse, it still causes scars on your heart. It causes trauma that people don't talk about. I plan to go to high schools and educate students on toxic relationships.
Q. How do you hope your pageant experience impacts your future?
A. Entering this pageant taught me about self-love, confidence, and how to publicly speak. It also taught me that life isn't a competition. It doesn't matter if someone makes more money than you, has a better job, is in a relationship you wish you had, or, in this case, beats you in a pageant. Instead of dwelling on what you don't have, it taught me to be happy for everyone and their accomplishments. It also taught me about motivation and determination. You can do anything you put your mind to.
“I want to help end the stigma about pageants,” DuBois adds. “These women are extremely intelligent, compassionate, and determined to make a difference. To run you must be educated, have a platform you're passionate about, and have the confidence to even go on stage. I applaud anyone that puts themselves out there and challenges themselves.”
To follow her journey, follow DuBois on Instagram @sophia_dubois.
