My name is Yekateryna Pozhar, I’m 20 years old, and I proudly represent Slovakia at Miss Europe Continental 2025. I was born in Smila, a small and welcoming town in central Ukraine, where I spent the first 16 years of my life. Growing up in a traditional Ukrainian family taught me the value of love, kindness, and family unity. Ukrainian women are known for being caring wives, loving mothers, and strong homemakers and I carry that same warmth and dedication in my heart.
For every woman, it’s important to be proud of herself, to feel calm and confident inside, and to know that she can handle anything life brings
– How do your Ukrainian roots enrich your identity as a woman and as a Miss?
My Ukrainian roots gave me strength, resilience, and deep empathy. They taught me that true beauty isn’t about appearance it’s about kindness, patience, and inner strength. Ukrainian culture celebrates women who can be both gentle and powerful, and that balance helps me stay authentic and grounded in everything I do.
– What made you feel at home in Slovakia, and what do you love most about this country?
When I first came to Slovakia, the first months were challenging I was adapting to a new culture and barely knew the language. But Slovak and Ukrainian are quite similar, and soon I started to understand, speak, and connect with people. Slovak people are incredibly warm and open-hearted they welcomed me as one of their own. After a year, I had already celebrated a Slovak wedding and Christmas, and I was amazed by how similar our traditions are. What I love most is the nature the mountains, the lakes, the endless green fields. Every time I travel by train and look through the window, I feel peace and gratitude for this beautiful country that became my second home.
– What do you hope to share with the European audience through your participation in Miss Europe Continental?
Through this competition, I want to share the message of authenticity and inner confidence. I want to represent both the strength of Ukrainian women and the warmth of Slovak people to show that beauty has no nationality. We all have our own journey, and I want to inspire women to embrace their story, their roots, and to never be afraid to shine as they are.
– You’re very active on social media, where does the inspiration for your content come from?
Over the last year, I’ve learned to treat Instagram as my personal space for self-expression. At first, I was afraid of being judged, but then I realized this is my page, my world, and my story. I love sharing small moments from my day and expressing my emotions, even if I’m not always very active. What inspires me most are real, open people those who show their emotions and energy, not just a perfect picture. Social media often looks fake, but I admire people who are rich spiritually and emotionally rather than financially. Their energy motivates me to create, to smile, and to stay true.
– Have you ever received inspiring or supportive messages because of your content? Was there one that particularly touched you?
Yes, definitely. When I announced my participation in Miss Europe Continental, I received so much love and support from my friends and family it really touched me deeply. As for negative comments, I don’t take them personally. One blogger friend once told me something that stayed in my mind: “People who are truly busy building their lives don’t waste time spreading negativity”. And I completely agree hate comes from emptiness, and I choose to focus on light instead.
– Who inspires you in your journey, both in the fashion world and in your personal life?
I’m inspired by women who use their voice and success to uplift others. One of them is Eva Longoria I admire her elegance, intelligence, and the way she combines beauty with purpose. She shows that a woman can be confident, kind, and powerful at the same time. Her balance between career, family, and philanthropy truly motivates me to grow not only professionally, but also as a person.
– What does “being yourself” mean to you in a world full of filters, expectations, and competition?
Being yourself means being at peace with your own reflection, not needing anyone’s approval. It’s accepting imperfections, staying honest with your emotions, and remembering that the most beautiful glow always comes from within.
– Is there a quote or life motto that guides you?
“Be proud of who you are, even when the world doesn’t understand your light.” It reminds me to stay calm, confident, and kind and to believe that everything happens for a reason.
– What advice would you give to a girl who dreams of entering a pageant but hasn’t found the courage yet?
I would tell her: don’t wait until you feel ready courage appears when you take the first step. You don’t have to be perfect to shine. Just believe in your uniqueness, and the world will see it too.
How do you envision your future after Miss Europe Continental, both professionally and personally?
I see my future as a journey of growth continuing in modeling, creating projects that inspire women, and developing my personal brand.
I’m also deeply passionate about beauty and cosmetics, and next year I plan to open up more as a beauty blogger sharing makeup looks, product reviews, and my personal vision of self-care and femininity. But above all, I want to stay true to myself to keep learning, traveling, and building a life that feels genuine, creative, and full of love.
Thank you for your time Yekateryna and for sharing something about yourself with the Miss Europe Continental community. See you soon in Naples
FOLLOW HER ON INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/yekaterynaaa/
