UNL students use pageantry for empowerment, show strength | Culture
In a world often constrained by stereotypes and expectations, Brooke Bode and Rylie Wright have charted an extraordinary course through the realm of pageantry. Their journeys, marked by resilience, authenticity and a profound belief in the power of women, serve as a beacon of inspiration for individuals breaking barriers.
Started in February, Candid Crowns, co-hosted by Bode and Wright, is aimed to overcome prejudices and build self-esteem through open conversations and counsel. Their podcast serves as a forum for sharing personal stories, offering advice and emphasizing the complex character of women’s journeys in many industries.
Brooke Bode: Defying stereotypes in STEM and pageantry
Brooke Bode, a 21-year-old junior majoring in mechanical engineering, is a trailblazer in every sense of the word. Starting pageantry in 2021, her efforts on her initiative of “Cultivating the Silicon Prairie: The Next Generation of Nebraska” can be seen as a co-founder and CTO of Cattle Kettle. This enterprise creates and programs a ground-breaking technology for automating water source management for livestock ranchers.
With a focus on hardware development, Bode is developing solutions that can resist extreme circumstances and increase ranchers’ efficiency. Despite being immersed in the predominantly male field of STEM, Bode fearlessly embraces her femininity, challenging societal norms with grace and determination.
“Being a woman in STEM, the phrase ‘girl power’ is used, which often refers to the idea that, to be taken seriously, you must act like a boy. While this is no harm, I often have to exist in a very masculine way to maintain credibility,” Bode said.
Her journey into pageantry was a pivotal moment of self-discovery. As the youngest and only female intern in her workplace in 2021, Bode often felt the pressure to conform to masculine standards. Seeking solace and a sense of camaraderie, she found refuge in pageantry during a visit back to Hershey, NE. It was there that Bode discovered the empowering community of women that would ultimately shape her path.
Bode’s involvement in pageantry transcends the superficial; it’s about breaking barriers and advocating for women’s empowerment. She deftly navigates the delicate balance between assertiveness and kindness, using her platform to address social and political issues while maintaining credibility in the professional sphere. Through her innovative work in designing automated systems for cattle producers, Bode exemplifies the fusion of intellect and elegance.
Rylie Wright: A voice for empowerment
At just 18 years old, Rylie Wright, a freshman political science major, stands as a powerful advocate for change. Her journey in pageantry began with accolades in the “Best of the West” competition in 2019 and the title of Miss Harvest Moon Festival’s Outstanding Teen in 2020.
For Wright, pageantry is more than just a crown and sash; it’s a platform to amplify her voice and advocate for causes close to her heart. With aspirations of attending law school with a focus on criminal law, Wright sees pageantry as a means to sharpen her public speaking skills and drive positive change in her community.
“I always say, ‘Kill them with kindness.’ However, there is a fine line between being walked over and being nice,” Wright said.
Her commitment to service is unwavering, evident in her volunteer experiences with Read 2 Succeed, where she works tirelessly to improve literacy rates. Wright’s poetry, showcased in her second book, ”Loose Leaf Thoughts,” serves as a testament to her resilience and compassion, offering solace to those battling mental health issues.
A bond formed in pageantry
Bode’s and Wright’s paths converged in 2023 at the Miss Nebraska pageant, where Bode clinched a coveted title. Despite the competitive nature of the event, the girls shared a ride home without a trace of animosity. It was a testament to the unbreakable bond formed among women in the pageantry circuit — the very bond that keeps them rooted in the community.
Their podcast, Candid Crowns, serves as a testament to their commitment to women’s health and self-worth. Through candid conversations and insightful advice, they aim to debunk stereotypes surrounding pageantry and empower women to embrace their authentic selves.
In their shared journey, Bode and Wright echo a sentiment that transcends pageantry: “You can be anything, but you don’t have to be everything.” This mantra, chosen by Wright, encapsulates their approach to life — a celebration of individuality, authenticity and the freedom to define success on one’s own terms.
As they look towards the future, Bode and Wright see pageantry as an integral part of their journey. For Bode, it’s a platform to secure scholarships and pursue higher education, while Wright views it as an opportunity to amplify her advocacy as she prepares for law school.
Beyond the glitz and glamor, Bode and Write embody the essence of empowerment, resilience and authentic self-expression, inspiring individuals to defy stereotypes and chart their own path to success.
