Strutting in towering seven-inch heels may seem glamorous, but it’s no easy feat. Celina Weil, the reigning Miss Germany, is among those honing their skills in Manila, the heart of beauty pageant training. At just 23, Weil balances on one leg in her sky-high heels, perfecting her posture and stride at Kagandahang Flores (KF), one of the Philippines’ most prestigious beauty camps.
Weil, who recently placed as fourth runner-up in the Miss Intercontinental 2024 competition in Egypt, says her time at the camp was transformative. “Above all, I wanted to perfect my walk,” she shares. Her training exemplifies the dedication required to succeed on the global stage.
The training program, led by veteran mentor Rodgil Flores and his team, is anything but glamorous. Taking place in a simple gym in Manila’s Ortigas Center, the regimen is more like boot camp, focusing on everything from walking in staggering heels to developing communication skills and stage presence. Flores’ holistic approach emphasizes not just physical readiness but also mental resilience.
“Beauty pageants are a mind game,” Flores explains. “A perfect body and good skin are prerequisites, but personality and determination ultimately make the difference.” His students, who include contestants from the U.S., Puerto Rico, and Nigeria, endure grueling sessions to prepare for the high stakes of international competitions.
The Philippines is a global powerhouse in beauty pageants, boasting multiple titles across the Big Four pageants, including Miss Universe and Miss Earth. Flores attributes this success to the country’s deep cultural appreciation for femininity and the rigorous training provided by beauty camps like KF and its rival, Aces & Queens.
Weil, who studies economics in Frankfurt, appreciates the discipline and camaraderie at KF. “The atmosphere is very professional and sometimes strict, but that’s how you learn,” she says. While competition can breed rivalry, Weil insists that mutual respect and shared goals prevail among the contestants.
High heels play a crucial role in training, as they enhance posture and create the illusion of height. Weil admits to stumbling during her first attempts in mammoth platforms but remains determined. “It’s just a matter of practice,” she says with a laugh.
For Weil, this experience isn’t just about winning a crown; it’s about personal growth and enjoying the journey.
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