OCALA, FL (352today.com) — The 2025 Miss Florida Competition kicks off Monday, June 23, in Lakeland, where 38 young women from across the state will compete for the prestigious title through a weeklong series of interviews, performances, and public service events.
Among them are two local titleholders representing Marion County: Caroline Schapansky, Miss Ocala 2025, and Madalyn Covington, Miss Teen Ocala 2025.
Schapansky, a nursing student entering her senior year at the University of Florida, is no stranger to the stage—she competed last year as Miss Georgefest. This year, she returns with a new title and a deeper sense of purpose.
“This past year has been probably the most pivotal and full of growth,” said Schapansky. “This organization calls you to a higher standard.”
Her community service initiative, Through the Looking Glass, advocates for the inclusion of individuals with disabilities, a mission she carries out both locally and nationally. From mentoring at the University of Florida through Capernaum ministry to speaking with lawmakers in Washington, D.C., Schapansky says the Miss America platform has allowed her advocacy to flourish.
Schapansky will perform a country-style yodeling act, “I Want to Be a Cowboy’s Sweetheart,” for the talent portion of the competition. “I wanted to do something fun and true to who I am,” she said.
Covington, who will begin her senior year of high school this fall, will showcase a dance to Beyoncé’s “I Was Here.” Her community service initiative supports foster and adoptive families, inspired by her family’s own adoption journey in 2020.
“My little brother came from Haiti and didn’t speak any English,” said Covington. “It was hard, especially during the pandemic, but organizations like Haven Retreats helped me through it. Now I get to help others through my platform.”
The week will also include a community outreach event, where contestants will donate clothes and offer styling support to girls in need. Both titleholders say this opportunity to serve is one of the most meaningful aspects of their journey.
Preliminary competitions begin mid-week, with finals set for Saturday, June 28.
“It’s not just about the title,” Covington said. “It’s about connecting, advocating, and using our voices to create change.”