Lauren Pederson
Congratulations on your feature! How does it feel to be representing Miss British Columbia in Paradise Girls Magazine?
It feels inspiring! I am so proud to represent my Canadian roots in such a respected magazine. To wear dolcessa swimwear and connect with brands and magazines on an international level is always incredibly humbling. I especially admire my fellow American pageant sisters, and feel honoured to be in connection with them!
What inspired you to pursue modeling and compete for Miss British Columbia?
I initially entered modelling years ago during my first year in post-secondary. I had a local photographer reach out and ask for some images for a brand. I was super open to it, as I usually am for many new things, and it seems to be history from that moment forward. I actually competed for Miss British Columbia, to follow my heart. At the beginning of 2025, I became very sick with endometriosis. I was hooked up to an IV as I was battling pneumonia, and I remember looking at the speckled ceiling and saying “this is my year I chase my dreams”. I knew the platform of Miss British Columbia would help me fulfill my hearts call of helping Canadian children.
How do you prepare—mentally and physically—for a pageant or runway event?
It is definitely a mindset. I will admit, I train twice a day most days of the week. One form of cardio or strength, and one walk or opposite movement. I also though focus the most on my inner body! Moving with the flow of my cycle, and what my mind-bodysoul needs each day. Prioritizing my health is the most important aspect for me, and this comes through as following my daily schedule of sauna, exercise, social connection, and meditations. I truly changed the way I prep for all events and runways this year.
What does confidence mean to you when you step on stage or in front of the camera?
Confidence means being comfortable in ME. Owning everything I am, instead of criticizing myself for everything I am “not”. This shift has been paramount for my confidence. Once a camera goes on you, who you are sometimes fades away. I’ve done deep inner work this year to sink further into owning exactly who I am.
What message do you hope your story and journey will send to other aspiring models?
I hope my story thus far shows others to embrace who you are naturally. To show people we are all vulnerable, we all have sensitivities, weaknesses, perhaps even health problems. No one is perfect at being a human, and no one in modelling is either.
How would you describe your personal style, and how does it reflect your personality?
My personal style is definitely classic. I have been called a “clean girl”, or feminine, but it’s funny because I have always felt I never fit in a certain theme or specific aesthetic. It used to bother me actually. I felt there was something almost wrong with me. This hilariously shows up in my personality in every way! For example, this morning I climbed a mountain and scaled heights- this evening I have a gala for charity. I am truly multifaceted, and this is completely in sync with my dynamic nature.
What was your favorite part of the Paradise Girls Magazine shoot or feature experience?
I love this question. The best part was owning my body and how far it had taken me this year. For the first time in my career, and maybe even life, I did not critique any mark or bump. I said thank you to my precious body for giving me the ability to walk, to hug one another, to lift up children. I owned the truth of me, through the empowerment and vulnerability of a swimshoot.
Who has been your biggest inspiration or mentor in your modeling career?
This is undoubtedly where I need to shout out a mentor from this year, who managed me during one of the most pivotal times in my personal life and modelling career. Marion Groot. This woman was my right hand woman, inspiring me daily with unwavering support and esteemed guidance. What many see on the outside are derivatives of her work and direction. She knew who I was as a brand and skillfully placed me in the right direction. There’s definitely a lot to the story there. Not many managers can you feel comfortable with when sick during shoots. I owe a piece of me to that lady!
How do you balance pageant life, modeling, and your everyday commitments?
Intense organization! I’ve learned the real lessons of burnout, and trying different ways and styles of managing all of my commitments. What I’ve learned, is that organization and a guided routine is key- but what is foundational is your heart space. If you feel aligned and excited, you will balance things however it works for you.
What’s next for you after Miss British Columbia—any upcoming projects or goals you’re excited about?
There is SO much on the horizon, that I wish I could speak about! Currently my health has been improving, which means potential competitions next year have my interest. Let’s just say letting my inner fire fly has been the best decision of my life! Graduate school and focusing on my counselling career is always at the forefront, however dreams are calling and I’m ready to answer.