World Class Beauty Queens Magazine pageant interview with Gabriela Ner Królowa Parady 2024 (Queen of the May 3rd Parade)
Full Name: Gabriela Ner
Title/Year: Królowa Parady 2024 (Queen of the May 3rd Parade) and Miss Congeniality 2024
Pageant System: Queen of the May 3rd Constitution Day Parade
Age: 19
Education Level: Currently Pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree
Zodiac Sign: Capricorn
Hobbies: Fitness, Photography, Art, Cooking, traveling
Platform: Women Empowerment, Polish Heritage
Years Competed:1year
Countries Visited: Poland, Mexico, Bosnia, Croatia, Portugal, Spain, Macedonia, Slovakia and around 10 states
Likes: shopping, swimming, dresses, warm weather
Dislikes: traffic, cold weather, snow
Current Status: In a relationship
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: Can you share a bit about who you are? Like, what are your passions outside of the pageant world?
I am the first child and daughter of Polish immigrants who are from a small town of Leżajsk. I was born in Hollywood, Florida in 2006 and moved to Chicago, IL at the age of 4. I am fluent in both Polish and English, and I consider Poland a second home. Although I currently reside and study in Chicago, traveling is one of my biggest passions. I enjoy traveling to Poland each summer to visit my family there and visit at least a new country each time I go. I love learning about new cultures, customs, trying local food and exploring new places. Through these travels I have learned to open my eyes and recognize the beauty in everything. Another passion of mine is cooking, and I love to try new recipes for my family.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: I’m curious about your education journey. What's it been like for you, any particular highlights or challenges?
I am currently a freshman at DePaul University pursuing a bachelor’s degree in business, minoring in International Business and also am a candidate for a Global Fluency Certificate. I am interested in one day in owning my own business that will function internationally. I also am interested in looking into fields of business and international law. I find it important for a woman to be educated, this is why in the future I hope to pursue a master’s degree.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: Women's empowerment is such a key topic. What does it mean to you personally?
Women's empowerment is one of my core missions. Despite my youth, I believe every woman has the potential to achieve her goals. Our diverse backgrounds are assets, not limitations, and we should support each other in our journeys. I work with HERitage Leaders, a non-profit focused on empowering, connecting, and leading women through Polish Heritage. In September 2024, we hosted “Leadership Inspired: Women for Women,” a panel featuring Polish women sharing their paths to success, overcoming challenges, and offering advice. The event was a success, and we have many exciting projects ahead!
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: How did you get into pageants? What sparked your interest initially?
The Queen of the May 3rd Constitution Day Parade pageant is so far my first pageant. Although it is my first, I believe it is a start to a beautiful journey! I am excited to see what the future has to hold!
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: What motivated you to participate in your first pageant? Was there a defining moment?
The Queen of the Parade pageant was a defining moment in my journey into pageantry. In 2021, I attended the gala, and it sparked my desire to compete. The event’s celebration of Polish Heritage and patriotism deeply resonated with me. Watching the candidates perform the Polonez, introduce themselves in beautiful wedding dresses, present unique talents, and answer the final questions inspired me. As I left that night, I promised myself I would one day take part in this pageant. Competing has been one of the best decisions I’ve made, and it’s fueled my passion for pageantry ever since.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: Why did you choose to compete for your current title? What made it stand out for you?
I decided to compete for the title of Queen of the May 3rd Constitution Day Parade because I deeply resonated with their values of elegance, patriotism, pride in Polish heritage, and empowering Polish women. Over the years, I had the privilege of seeing past Queens and their courts at various Polish events throughout the Chicago community, which not only sparked my interest but also inspired me to embrace, celebrate, and get involved with my heritage in a meaningful way. This opportunity felt like the perfect way to honor my roots and contribute to something greater.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: I'd love to know more about your pageant system. Could you explain what it’s all about?
The Queen of the May 3rd Parade pageant system is based on Polish heritage, elegance, and presentation skills. The foundation of the name “Queen of the Parade” pertains to the May 3rd Parade that happens on the first Saturday in May, celebrating the signing Poland’s Constitution. It is an important part of Poland’s history, and each year hundreds of Polish people gather in Chicago to celebrate this day together. This year, I was named the 25th Queen of the May 3rd Parade. There is a Gala held once a year, usually in March with new candidates. During this gala, girls dance traditional polonez in wedding dresses, introduce themselves, choose a question to answer, present their own talents, and answer a final question. When it comes to titles, there are 5 title available. There are 3 main girls picked by the Jury present, Queen of the Parade, First Runner Up, and Second Runner Up. The other two titles are Miss Foto (picked by photographers) and Miss Congeniality (voted on by the public). These girls are also able win these other two titles or other girls who aren’t picked by the jury can also win these titles. This year’s head of Jury was Pani Dr. Łucja Mirowska-Kopec, accompanied by Dr. Pawel Zyzak, Joanna Piatek, Marcin Krempa, Kinga Modjeska, Andrzej Wąsewicz, and Julia Szumny (Queen of the Parade 2017). There are scholarships awarded to the winning girls to support their dreams of a high education.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: What do you think sets your pageant director apart from others?
Mrs. Ewa Ruminski is a director who truly embodies the mission of the Queen of the May 3rd Parade, which is to empower Polish women. Her dedication to uplifting others is evident in her approach, as she consistently encourages us to strive for excellence in everything we do. As a mentor, she not only helps guide us but also inspires us to push beyond our limits and reach our goals. Mrs. Ruminski’s passion for fostering confidence and leadership in each of us has had a lasting impact, and her unwavering support continues to motivate us to be the best versions of ourselves.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: During competitions, what are the key things you're judged on?
Most of the competition is based on ability to speak well in Polish, talent presentation, elegant presentation, confidence, and past accomplishments. Candidates are judged by the jury present, that changes each year.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: What’s your competition experience been like? Any memorable moments or learnings?
I absolutely love competing! The preparation process is so exciting, and I felt incredibly motivated throughout. My favorite part was preparing and presenting my talent, which I dedicated to my grandparents in Poland, whom I visit every summer. For my talent, I wrote a poem reflecting on my summers in Poland and wore a traditional dress from the Krakow region, my favorite city. This moment was especially meaningful because I flew my grandparents to Chicago and surprised them with the poem as a thank you for everything they've done for me. The competition itself was an adrenaline rush, and I enjoyed every minute of it. Competing and presenting are such rewarding experiences, and each moment was an opportunity to showcase all the hard work I had put into my preparation.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: Would you recommend your pageant system to others? If so, why?
I would definitely recommend the Queen of the May 3rd Parade pageant. It offers a unique experience unlike other pageant systems, and if a girl has the opportunity to compete, she absolutely should. I signed up for this pageant because I wanted to inspire the youth to take pride in where they come from, which, in my case, is Poland. It’s a wonderful platform to celebrate heritage and empower others.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: Tell me about your advocacy or volunteer work. What causes are you passionate about?
I have volunteered in various sectors, and this is just the beginning of my journey. Some of my volunteer initiatives include organizations like You Can Be My Angel, Madonna’s Mission, and serving as a teacher’s assistant at the Polish school I graduated from, Jan III Sobieski School. All these initiatives share a common focus: children. Through You Can Be My Angel, we raise funds to support families of children in Poland battling cancer. At Madonna’s Mission, I tutored children from low-income households and helped with their homework. As a teacher’s assistant at Jan III Sobieski Polish Saturday School, I helped children learn the beautiful, yet challenging Polish language. Currently, I assist the Polish school with event planning and graphic design.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: With your title, what kinds of appearances or activities have you been involved in?
Throughout my year as Queen of the May 3rd Parade, I made numerous appearances, often several times a weekend and sometimes during the week. These included visits to Polish schools and preschools, attending formal galas for various organizations in Chicago, participating in the May 3rd Parade, and other formal events. Some highlights include meeting with Marshal Władysław Ortył and Vice Marshal Piotr Plich of the Subcarpathia Region in Poland, as well as recently meeting the President and First Lady of Poland, Andrzej Duda and Agata Kornhauser-Duda. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to represent the May 3rd Parade Committee at these events. These experiences have had a profound impact on me, both as a Queen and as a woman.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: Can you share some of your achievements, both in and outside of pageantry?
One of my personal biggest achievements is earning a Seal of Biliteracy in Polish and English as well as the Polish Language Certificate Exam at B2 Level in Poland. This was one of my biggest achievements because I felt as though the 10 years every Saturday at Polish School had paid off. I am proud to speak two languages fluently, especially Polish. Polish is a hard language, and I hope to pass this language on to my children one day.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: In such a competitive field, what do you think makes you stand out?
I am deeply devoted to my work and motivated to make things happen. As a dreamer, one of my favorite sayings is, "What if it all works out?" I believe that whatever I set my mind to, I will achieve. If my first plan doesn't work, I trust that what’s meant for me will be even better—it’s simply a redirection.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: I can only imagine how it feels to win. What was going through your mind when your name was announced as the winner?
Winning felt like pure euphoria. I had worked and dreamed for this moment for a long time, and it felt like all my efforts had paid off. I was fortunate to win two titles: Queen of the May 3rd Parade and Miss Publicity, which I earned by receiving the most public votes. I was especially shocked to win Miss Publicity, as I only had 30 guests, while there were over 500 in attendance. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity and support I received from everyone, as it made this experience even more meaningful.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: What does being a Beauty Queen mean to you?
A Beauty Queen is a powerful title. She is confident in herself, and does not have to prove herself to others, she is content. She leads with elegance and humbleness, instead of shouting for attention. She is considered a “girls girl” and she is someone who other women can trust and lean on.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: How have pageants impacted your life?
Throughout my year of being the Queen of the May 3rd Day Parade I have deepened my connection with the Polish community in Chicago, but also in people Poland. I have gained a greater respect for the hard work of the community, especially its Polish schools, as they hold the future for Polonia in Chicago. These organizations work to preserve the future of Polonia by cultivating its language, customs, traditions, and history for generations to come. I would not have been able to meet and work with wonderful, smart, and hardworking people if I had not won.
I am truly inspired and forever grateful. Along with this, I am also grateful to be surrounded by strong and supportive Polish women and queens, who helped and guided me. Without them, I would not be the queen I am today.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: How have pageants influenced your self-esteem and body image?
Though Queen of the May 3rd Parade, I have learned to be confident and accept the person I am. There is no need to change yourself for other’s liking, as you will become unhappy. Do and dress in what makes YOU happy, and you will find your inner beauty.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: You’re an inspiration to many. How does that feel, and what message do you want to share with others?
It is truly an honor to be able to be able to inspire, and it is a powerful position to be used wisely as well. I hope to inspire girls to one day compete in the same pageant as me, but I also want to inspire others to be proud of their heritage! It is important to know where to come from and proud of it. I also want others to know that it IS possible. Follow your heart, try your best, embrace the journey and mistakes, and it will work out the way it’s meant to be.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: What’s your strategy for captivating the judges on stage?
I believe there is a big power in two things: eye contact and embracing who you are. Eye contact is a symbol of confidence and being yourself is another powerful thing. No one can ever be you, and being yourself can be the winning deciding factor.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: How do you prepare for competitions? Any specific routines or practices?
My best practice was practicing my speeches to different family members. I also made sure to start my preparations early on so I would not forget what I wanted to say on the big day. Another way I practiced was practicing to my mirror as well as recording videos of myself to hear it back and pick out my own mistakes to correct them.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: Got any tips for nailing the perfect pageant walk?
The root of a perfect pageant walk is confidence. Make sure you have a tested and comfortable pair of walking shoes, roll your shoulders back, control your arms, look ahead of you (never back), and smile! Also, make sure to either practice to a mirror or video yourself walking to point out little things you want to work on!
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: Choosing the right pageant dress can be crucial. What are your tips for making the best choice?
In my opinion, choosing the right pageant dress can be vital to your performance. When choosing a pageant dress, I always find a dress that I feel good in, is my style but also feel confident in. If you feel it, you are it. Make sure to also know what colors and style suit you and your body best and what the overall style is expected at the pageant.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: Interview rounds can be tricky. What are your strategies for a winning interview?
Practice makes perfect! Be yourself in interviews, it is a way to showcase you and your efforts in words. Have fun with these as well, it’s a chance to showcase your wonderful personality.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: Looking back, is there a moment in a competition you wish you could redo?
I personally am a person who does not believe in regrets, so in my opinion everything that day happened for a reason, and if I made a mistake it was meant to be that way. I was very prepared for the day so I do not recall making a mistake.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: What common mistakes do you see others making in contests?
I try to not look into other girls’ mistakes when competing because I understand the levels of stress and emotions, they may be feeling that day. But, if I could think of two mistakes, I see commonly is the girls not preparing enough for their answers, when asked and not paying attention to their body language. These factors are vital to your performance on stage.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: Do you have any experience in modeling or acting?
A little bit! I occasionally model for boutiques and bridal through runway and photoshoots. I hope to do more in the future!
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: What are your plans or goals for the upcoming year as a Queen?
Although my term ends in March 2025, I have high ambitions. I would like to still stay involved in Polonia, hoping to expand and work directly with people in Poland. The best is yet to come!
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: Finally, what kind of legacy do you hope to leave behind?
I hope to leave a lasting legacy that helps the Queen of the May 3rd Parade organization continue to grow and thrive for years to come. My goal is to inspire future generations of Polish-American girls to participate, stay connected to their heritage, and take pride in their roots. Through their involvement in the pageant, I want them to feel empowered and understand the importance of preserving our culture. By encouraging these young women to actively engage in the community, I believe we can create a cycle of pride and leadership, where each generation celebrates our traditions and passes them on to the next. This will help ensure that the rich Polish legacy remains strong, and that future leaders continue to honor and share the values that make our community unique.
Additional Information
Director: Ewa Ruminkski
Assistant Director: Monica Lebenstejn
Coordinator: Marianna Mosz
- Pageant Website: polishparade.org
- Photographer and Credit Details: Marek Art
- Sponsors Acknowledgment:
- Queen’s evening gowns (purple and light pink) : Arabella’s Boutique
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine would like to say thank you for this wonderful interview.
Gabriela Ner Królowa Parady 2024 (Queen of the May 3rd Parade), World Class Beauty Queens Magazine, Photo by Marek Art
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Interview by Derek Tokarzewski
Owner/Editor in Chief
Mr WorldClass 2023
Mr United Nations 2018
Platform: Women Empowerment
