Read Part 1 of Vahen's blog here.
If you ask me about my journey of being a person with a disability, I will tell you that it's not always been easy, but I am going further emotionally, spiritually, and physically than I ever thought possible. Having the courage to face my fears and keep pushing forward, has led me to some of the most amazing experiences and the fulfillment of my wildest dreams. I am an author, motivational speaker, life coach, and ordained minister, but the newest opportunity that I accepted this past July has catapulted my dreams into something bigger than I could have ever imagined.
When a friend asked if I wanted to go to Vancouver to enter the first ever Miss Wheelchair Canada, my first response was NO! I wondered if this was really for me. However, I quickly realized that this was an amazing opportunity to expand my sphere of influence, and have an amazing experience in the process. I saw a unique opportunity to inspire not only people with physical disabilities, but anyone who has ever felt fearful, unworthy, or "less than."
So, off to Vancouver I went to compete in the first ever Miss Wheelchair Canada. And get this: not only did I win the first ever Miss Wheelchair Canada, I went on to represent Canada on the world stage in Poland this past October. 23 other amazing women were competing for a title that we were all worthy of receiving. There's not enough time here to adequately unpack that whole experience, but maybe this video I've shared here will give you a glimpse.
No, I did not win the title of Miss Wheelchair World, but I came away with so much more. The title of Miss Kindness, memories and relationships that will last a lifetime, and an even bigger platform. And from where I'm sitting, that's winning.
Here's a quote from the Miss Wheelchair World organizers that I would like to share, and see if you feel the same?
"We gave the finalist an opportunity to become a judge. They were granted the ability to vote for the most friendly, kind-hearted and favorable of them all. The title Miss Kindness has been awarded to Vahen King from Canada! Congratulations Vahen King."
This was the only title awarded by our peers. Furthermore, being that Canada is considered a nation of kindess, this title was truly a great honor.
The experiences I've had as a result of conquering my fears has been incredible. I thought, "Wow, I am now sharing my story of inspiration on a world stage." Amazing!
I love what Ellen Johnson said about dreams. She said, "If your dreams don't scare you, they are not big enough." So true! Which is why, on top of everything I've already experienced, I have taken on the challenge of collaborating with these 23 other amazing women, to publish all of our stories under one cover.
What's holding you back? Sometimes, the only thing standing in the way of you and an amazing future - is you!
Face your fears!
Maybe the Miss Wheelchair Canada pageant isn't for you, but what if it its?! We are now looking for the next Miss Wheelchair Canada, and if you would like to enter or if you have questions, please contact Miss Wheelchair Canada on Facebook. We hope to see you in the 2018 Miss Wheelchair Canada pageant. Date and location to be announced later.
Also, if you would like to follow my journey, read more blogs, or invite me to speak at your event, subscribe to my website at vahenking.com, or follow me on all the social media channels.
Blessings and special greetings from the #FEARLESS Miss Wheelchair Canada 2017.
About the Author
Vahen King is an author, motivational speaker, life coach, and yes, even an ordained minister. But please don't let that scare you away. Vahen is a normal girl loving life and walking through each door as God opens them. She doesn't pretend to have all the answers, but she believes that all the events in her life - both good and bad - has led her onto this unique platform to help anyone who has ever felt fearful, unworthy, or unloved.
Vahen feels that the message she has to share will challenge people's self-doubt and empower them.
Vahen currently lives with her husband, Vaughn, in Edmonton, Alberta, but is excited to travel the world.
Vahen's ride is a Quickie 7R.
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