From unplaced to unforgettable, Sophia Kaye Zaragoza, a 19-year-old freshman from the University of St. La Salle, has proven that determination and growth can lead to triumph.
A resident of Barangay Estefania and a Tourism Management student, Sophia returned to the Miss Bacolod MassKara stage Oct. 12 with a clear mission — and delivered a stunning performance that captured both hearts and headlines.
After going unplaced in last year’s pageant, Sophia made a powerful comeback, earning the unofficial title of the night’s biggest redemption story. Her persistence paid off as she bagged multiple major awards, including the coveted EP Studio Miss Photogenic, Best in Festival Costume, and Best in Costume Design for her vibrant representation of the Ati-Atihan Festival under the banner of Barangay Singcang Airport.
Adding to her achievements, Sophia was named the first-ever recipient of the Legacy Media Award, a historic recognition introduced this year to honor a candidate’s media presence, impact, and public engagement throughout the competition chosen by the members of the local press.
She also bagged corporate awards, further solidifying her place as one of the evening’s standout contenders, a press release from the pageant organizer said.
In her on-stage Q&A, Sophia eloquently spoke about the importance of inclusivity in festivals like MassKara. She emphasized that the celebration should remain a “Festival for All”, with meaningful spaces for PWDs, the LGBTQ+ community, and even pets, showcasing her progressive values and community-centered vision.
Pageant fans and judges alike took notice of her transformation — not just in confidence and presentation, but in substance. Her poise, advocacy, and authenticity were a testament to the preparation she undertook under the Powerhouse School of Talents, mentored by renowned trainer Jelliane Rose Dinorog Villacuatro.
Beyond the crown, Sophia is already carving her own path as a young entrepreneur, following in the footsteps of her mother. Her MassKara journey proves that resilience and heart can turn past setbacks into a sweet victory.
From second chances to center stage, Sophia’s story is one of growth, grit, and glowing success — a true face of MassKara 2025. ||
