The model. The beauty queen. The student. LaStarra Hampton is a Renaissance woman, multitalented and on-the-go. But is this contender ready for Regionals? If her impressive capture of the Miss Phi Beta Sigma: State of Mississippi crown is any indication, the answer is a resounding yes! This week, 5 Questions captured some of LaStarra’s time to find out her motivation toward success in and out of pageantry.
1)What did you take away from competing for the title of Miss Phi Beta Sigma:State of Mississippi, and what personal qualities do you think contributed to your success?
1)What did you take away from competing for the title of Miss Phi Beta Sigma:State of Mississippi, and what personal qualities do you think contributed to your success?
The main lesson I learned in competing for the title of Miss Phi Beta Sigma: State of Mississippi, was to be genuine and kind to everyone.
Backstage my fellow contestants needed help with everything from finishing touches on their formal attire to advice on how to stay calm, and I was happy to lend a hand wherever needed. I even allowed one contestant borrow a pair of shoes at the last minute before going onstage.You never realize how hectic the “behind the scenes” of a pageants can be! I wanted to be positive, hoping that it would boost the moral of my fellow contestants. It did, and also assisted me in remaining relaxed and composed for stage presence during the competition. Besides the overall prize, this helped me to win one of the most humbling titles of all:Miss Congeniality.
2)What sparked your interest in pageants, and are you considering another competition in your future?
I actually became interested in pageantry through modeling. I’ve always thought it important to present myself well in person as well as in print. I wanted the opportunity to take it to the next level, showing off my intellect and spirit. Pageantry was the perfect platform opportunity to do just that.
My next opportunity for competition will be at the regional level to compete for the title of Miss Phi Beta Sigma Southern Region.
3)What was the best piece of advice someone ever gave you, and what advice do you have for any girls getting into pageantry?
The best piece of advice I’ve ever received came from the poem “House by the Side of the Road” by Sam Walter Foss. There is a repeating line that says, “Be a friend to man.” To me this means values of service, love, and care for your fellow man will help all aspect of your life fall into place.
I encourage all girls entering the world of pageantry to take to get to know you better. As servants to our fellow man we must always hold ourselves as an instrument for service to others. If you work diligently toward any goal that you have, you can and will achieve it in due time. You can never dream too big!
My passion outside of pageantry is fitness. We only get one body so it is important that we take good care of it. I hope to educate my community on the importance of healthy choices in diet and exercise. Making healthy choices helps to prevent heath issues later on in life. This is especially important to me as a Mississippi resident, as this state has a high rate of obesity. I believe that through healthy lifestyle choices this state can excel in having healthy citizens.
5)With spring around the corner, what is your go-to beauty secret?
My spring beauty secret would be to hydrate incessantly. Natural beauty which starts from within, and water is vital to great heath. Drinking water keeps you looking energized and refreshed, and also supports healthy hair, skin, and nails. I keep a filtered water bottle with
me throughout the day wherever I go, and try to drink at least 32 ounces a day. Water is the best beauty secret any girl can have.
me throughout the day wherever I go, and try to drink at least 32 ounces a day. Water is the best beauty secret any girl can have.
Quick Facts!
Name:
Robinique LaStarra Hampton
Hometown:
Indianola, MS
Education:
Gentry High School
Maranantha Christian College
Currently pursuing a Bachelors of Science in Interior Design from The University of Southern Mississippi
Miss Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Incorporated: State of Mississippi
Organizations:
Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated
United Sates Army Reserve
Let’s Move: Healthy Youth Initiative
March of Dimes
American Heart Assiociation
Twitter handle
@RLaStarraH