Today we’d like to introduce you to Gianna Castillo.
Gianna, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My journey is truly remarkable. From overcoming challenges to pursuing my passions, I’ve learned the importance of perseverance and self-worth. As a founder of Queens Nation and a life coach, I inspire others to find their inner beauty and voice. My story is one of faith, determination, and humility, and I’m committed to sharing it with the world.
Through my experiences, I’ve learned that true beauty comes from within. I’ve faced many struggles, but I’ve never let them define me. Instead, I’ve used them as opportunities to grow and learn. As a mental health advocate, I’m passionate about helping others find their own path to self-discovery and empowerment.
My platform is about spreading a message of hope and resilience. I believe that everyone has a story to tell, and that by sharing our experiences, we can inspire and uplift one another. Whether it’s through my work with Queens Nation, my life coaching services, or my advocacy for mental health, I’m committed to making a positive impact in the world.
I’m proud of the person I’ve become and the journey I’ve been on. I’ve learned to love myself, flaws and all, and to find beauty in my uniqueness. My goal is to help others do the same, and to show them that they too can overcome any obstacle and achieve their dreams.
My pageant journey began as a tribute to my brother’s memory. Losing him was a life-altering experience, but it also sparked a newfound determination within me. In his honor, I decided to take a leap of faith and compete in my first pageant in 2015, using this platform to celebrate his life and inspire others.
A decade later, I’m still competing, and my advocacy has evolved to prioritize mental health awareness, with a special focus on supporting our younger generations, particularly transgender youth. As a proud mother of a transgender daughter, I’ve found my own path to living authentically, and I’m dedicated to helping others do the same, after embracing my true self later in life.
I’ve recently achieved a milestone by winning the Ms. Global World 2024-25 title. What made this moment even more surreal was walking the stage on a ship docked in Mexico, a place I left 14 years ago as a teenager fleeing abuse. Representing Tennessee in the Ms. USA pageant earlier in 2024 was a stepping stone to this international win. The Ms. USA Pageants organization provided a platform for me to showcase my story and passion, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to have represented the USA on the global stage. This experience is a testament to perseverance and chasing one’s dreams, no matter the challenges.
Here’s a revised version:
Now, I’m embracing a new role as a first-time grandmother to my lovely granddaughter Olivia, although distance makes it tough to spend as much time with her as I’d like. As an Army veteran, I prioritize my health, which can be a challenge given my medical history of over 33 surgeries and living with PTSD, anxiety, and depression. Despite these hurdles, I do my best to take care of myself every day.
What’s next for me? The sky’s the limit! Maybe Miss USA is on the horizon – why not? Our beliefs have the power to shape our reality, so let’s own our dreams and make them happen. I’m excited to see what’s next!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
“My journey has been a rollercoaster of challenges, from battling a life-threatening brain cyst and enduring 33 surgeries, to managing PTSD, anxiety, and depression. I became a mother at a young age, having married at 16 and unfortunately experiencing physical abuse shortly after. Despite the difficulties that followed, I’ve worked hard to build a better life for myself and my children. As a mother of a transgender daughter and now a grandmother, I’ve learned to navigate complex issues with love and compassion. I’m determined to use my experiences to advocate for mental health awareness and support others who may be facing similar challenges.”
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’ve made it my mission to dedicate my life to advocating for and serving my community. I’m a multifaceted professional, offering services as a freelance makeup artist, hair extension specialist, and spray tanning expert. Additionally, I work as a life coach, helping others achieve their goals and find their path to success. Through my various roles, I’m able to make a positive impact and support those around me.
In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
Over the next 5-10 years, I envision myself continuing to grow and evolve as a multifaceted professional. As a beauty entrepreneur, life coach, and advocate, I see myself:
– *Expanding to beauty product line*: Developing new and innovative products that cater to diverse skin types and tones, with a focus on sustainability and inclusivity.
– *Growing Queens Nation*: Establishing Queens Nation as a leading organization for women’s empowerment and support, providing resources and services that promote mental health, wellness, and personal growth.
– *Increasing my impact as a life coach*: Helping more individuals achieve their goals and find their path to success, with a focus on supporting marginalized communities and promoting self-love and self-acceptance.
– *Continuing to advocate for mental health*: Using my platform to raise awareness and promote understanding of mental health issues, reducing stigma and supporting those affected.
– *Pursuing new opportunities*: Exploring new ways to share my story and inspire others, whether through writing, public speaking, or other forms of creative expression.
– *Proving coaching for pageant competitors, helping them achieve their goals and objectives.
Ultimately, I see myself making a lasting impact in my community and beyond, leaving a legacy that inspires and empowers future generations.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_iamgiannag_, https://www.instagram.com/thezen.coach and https://www.instagram.com/msglobalworld
