A RUNCORN woman who feels ‘empowered’ by pageants has been named as a finalist for Miss Great Britain 2023.

Ellie White had only ever competed in two pageants before being crowned winner of Miss Chester in July, which is an incredible achievement.

As a result, she has also qualified as a finalist for Miss Great Britain, at a glittering ceremony which will be taking place this October.

The 23-year-old has shared her passion for pageants and how they empower women to be more successful and comfortable in themselves.

Despite being new to the pageant world, she is extremely passionate about the industry and is proud to represent her town.

Ellie said: “Competing in pageants empowers women to feel comfortable in their own skin, to shine and be the best version of themself.

“It encourages new relationships, new experiences and is truly a once in a lifetime opportunity.

Runcorn and Widnes World: Ellie White has been crowned Miss Chester 2023Ellie White has been crowned Miss Chester 2023 (Image: Supplied)

“It’s an amazing way to boost the confidence of women around the world and inspires us to do the things that makes us happy so freely.”

Ellie believes the pageant world is ‘often misinterpreted’ and wishes to use her platform to shift attitudes towards it and encourage others to take part in the incredible experience.

Competing in pageants has also granted Ellie success within other aspects of her life.

Being unhappy in her previous retail job and lacking in self-confidence, she believes pageanting granted her the strength and confidence to become a successful owner of a beauty salon.

“I truly feel that I have been blessed with this, just by simply taking a step and believing in myself,” she added

Charity fundraising is an important part of the pageanting industry, and one in which Ellie feels very passionate about.

Miss Great Britain is supporting Cancer Research and Alex’s Wish – Cure Duchenne this year. The organisation raised an amazing £59,914.42 for both charities last year.