In Yuma, Chief Shawna Wells of the Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) acknowledges the impact of her daughter Eliana’s journey through pageantry on her personal development.
Eliana participated in her first pageant last year, winning the 2024 Miss Yuma County Teen title and becoming the first runner-up for Miss Arizona Teen. This year, she earned the Miss East Valley 2025 crown.
“What really stood out for me was seeing her blossom. I can look back at photos from the Miss Arizona Teen event seven months after she won Miss Yuma County Teen and think, ‘Who’s watching her?'”
Last year marked Eliana’s significant growth. She graduated high school a year early and enrolled in classes at Arizona Western College. Shawna encouraged her to stay local, even though Eliana had already been accepted by the University of Alabama.
“I felt she wasn’t quite ready mentally or emotionally. I didn’t see enough initiative to take on adult responsibilities,” Shawna shared.
However, her experiences in the pageant world brought about a transformation.
“She used to be so shy, she wouldn’t even ask for directions in a store. Now it’s remarkable. I truly encourage young women to take part in pageants,” Shawna noted.
Both Shauna and Eliana enjoy collaborating on Eliana’s Inclusion Services Initiative, which focuses on integrating individuals with special needs. She’s even planning to host a special needs pageant in Yuma on June 6th, which carries personal significance for the family.
“It means a lot to us since both her dad and I have siblings with special needs,” Shawna explained.
Shawna has worked with MWR for 15 years, starting in youth sports, and she draws on that experience to support her daughter.
“She volunteered extensively, organized events, and worked with the Special Olympics. We had many opportunities to collaborate,” Shawna reflected.
Eliana’s future appears promising as she aims for a bachelor’s degree in sports business at Arizona State University.
In June, she will compete again at the Miss Arizona Pageant, showcasing her talent on stage.
Shawna expressed her enthusiasm, saying, “It’s thrilling to watch her balance education, community service, and pageant goals. She’s certainly a standout!”
