WATCH: Q&A With Miss Intercontinental 2018 Karen Gallman—Plus, More Photos From Our Shoot With Her!
White dress by Pia Gladys Perey
READ: EXCLUSIVE: Miss Intercontinental 2018 Karen Gallman Kicks Off Our "Fascinating Women" Campaign
"I didn't want to have regrets in my life," quips Miss Intercontinental 2018 Karen Gallman when asked why she decided to give pageantry one more try. She first joined Binibining Pilipinas in 2012, and found her way back to it six years later.
That period of time away from the pageant scene allowed her to realize that it's what she's truly passionate about. The idea of possibly becoming a woman of influence, whose voice would resonate with many people, excited her; it made her look forward to the opportunities to put the spotlight on the advocacies she holds dear.
READ: 10 Must-Know Things About The Philippines' First Miss Intercontinental Winner, Karen Gallman!
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Even when she hadn't won the Miss Intercontinental title yet, Karen has been championing the improvement of compulsory education in the rural areas across the country. "I chose that advocacy because I grew up in Bohol and I experienced walking to school for about 30 minutes. It was quite far," Karen tells Metro.Style. "And I experienced also attending primary school in Australia and I compared the materials from Australia to the education here in the Philippines. I realized it needs work, and I really wanted to partner up with the Department of Education."
READ: EXCLUSIVE: Miss Intercontinental Karen Gallman's Evening Gown Was Inspired By Bohol Waterfalls
Being a beauty queen means much more than just having a gorgeous face and sexy body, but Karen acknowledges that exerting an effort to always look good eventually contributes to boosting one's confidence and self-esteem. "It is quite important to always look good 'cause you'll never know who you'll meet," she says. "But at the end of the day, you should be comfortable. I think that's the most important thing."
Produced by Geolette Esguerra
Photography by Xander Angeles
Creative direction by Chookie Cruz
Liaison editor: Grace Libero-Cruz
Makeup by Anton Patdu
Hairstyling by Georgi Petkov
Styling by Carvey Samonte for Mesmyrrhized
Interview and video produced by Joan Ko
Videography by Gian Escamillas
Special thanks to Rodgil Flores
