It was a new beginning for the Ms. Wheelchair Arizona program and Arizona can be proud to welcome another new and exceptionally talented person to speak for and represent the disabled community. Juliet Martinez is a vibrant young lady who is already on her path to experiencing life and making a difference in spite of any obstacles her disability may present.
The competition was held Friday, January 3rd at the Disability Empowerment Center. The two other contestants were Meagan Wagner, and Kristi Grim. In the end, the panel of three judges selected Juliet based on interviews and her answers to questions in front of the judges and audience.
“I’m honored to be Ms. Wheelchair Arizona 2014 because it will allow me to engage fellow wheelers from around the valley. I’m excited to promote awareness and advocate for healthier, easier, and happier lifestyles,” says Juliet who graduated from Desert Ridge High School in 2009 and received and undergrad degree in Communication from ASU in 2013. She is currently pursuing her Masters Degree in Business and Technology. Juliet volunteers at the Boys and Girls Club and Relay for Life. She is also a mentor at her church.
Terry and Karen Charlton were the state coordinators. Masters of Ceremony was Dr. Brian O’Conner. The judges this year were ABIL’ Don Price, Former Ms Wheelchair America, Tracy O’Conner, and Nina Bernardo from Arizona Disabled Sports.
Juliet is now qualified to compete in the Ms. Wheelchair America 2015 competition will take place August 4th – 10th 2014 in Long Beach, California. The event will take place at the beautiful Hilton Hotel in downtown Long Beach. During the week long event contestants will participate in a leadership institute, mentoring events and judging sessions.