Contestant #1 Zhyryll Krystynn Parado
Firstly, my name is Zhyryll. If you just scratched your head trying to figure out how to say it, you’re not alone. If I got a dollar every time someone said my name wrong, I honestly wouldn’t need a job. However, it is a fun name to have. I’m not going to spoil it and tell you how it’s pronounced. I enjoy seeing people try. If you want to take the challenge, approach me and if you get it right, I’ll buy you an ice cream. I was born in Cebu. My mother’s family migrated to Auckland and we eventually had to follow in 2008. Although I was raised there, I didn’t actually know how to speak the language until I moved here where I was taught by my mother’s side of the family, and I don’t plan on losing it. I’m proud to be Cebuano. I treasure my childhood memories, like playing dakup-dakup with the neighbourhood kids, listening to aswang stories in school, and eating tempura on the side of the road, to name a few. I never thought I’d miss these simple things when I boarded the plane with a huge smile on my face. At times when I look out and see the empty neighbourhood, I end up missing the busy streets I’ve left behind. I’d even go as far as saying I miss waking up to the noise in the middle of the night. It’s so nostalgic. I haven’t visited the Philippines since. I’m happy that Sinulog is being celebrated here in New Zealand. Whenever I attend, it takes me back home. My little sister was born here in New Zealand and my brother was only four years old when we moved, as such is the case with many others, which makes me appreciate Sinulog even more because it is an opportunity for them to not only learn about their heritage, but to also experience what it means to be a Filipino. Sinulog is a way for us to showcase our culture and tradition, as well as give praise to Señor Santo Niño for our many blessings in life. It is an honour to represent this amazing event as a Queen candidate.
Contestant #2 Vea Claire Diola Estoconing
