Today we’d like to introduce you to Ariana Pineda.
Hi Ariana, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
It all began during my sophomore year of college when I was first asked to participate in Miss Asia USA. Initially, I was hesitant. The thought of standing on a stage, being in the spotlight, it was daunting. I had always struggled with stage fright and a lack of self-confidence, which made me decline the invitation, not just once but multiple times over the years.
However, something shifted last year. I realized that continually stepping back from opportunities out of fear was not the way I wanted to live my life. I decided to challenge myself, to step out of my comfort zone and finally accepted the invitation to participate in the pageant.
This decision marked the beginning of a transformative journey for me. The preparation for the pageant was not just about learning to walk on stage or choosing the right outfits; it was a deeper process of self-discovery and self-love. I learned to embrace my fears to see them not as barriers but as stepping stones toward growth.
As I progressed through the stages of the competition, I found myself growing more confident, more in tune with who I am, and more appreciative of my unique qualities. Winning the title of Miss Asia USA 2023 was not just a personal achievement; it was a testament to the power of facing one’s fears and the beauty of self-acceptance.
Throughout my journey, I saw the pageant as a platform for human empowerment. It’s an avenue to inspire others, especially young women, to believe in themselves, to embrace their fears, and to rise above them. It has taught me the importance of self-love and the strength that comes from it.
Looking back, I see a significant transformation in myself from a college sophomore riddled with self-doubt to Miss Asia USA 2023, a confident, empowered woman ready to make a positive impact. This journey has been about more than a title; it’s been about discovering myself, facing my fears, and learning to use my voice for the greater good. I hope my story can inspire others to take that leap of faith, to challenge their fears, and to discover their true potential.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Has it been a smooth road? Far from it. The journey to becoming Miss Asia USA 2023 was filled with challenges and learning experiences that pushed me far beyond my comfort zone.
Firstly, I had no background in anything related to pageants. My world was academia and tech; I was a biomedical engineering major, deeply involved in cancer research and interning at big tech companies. The realm of entertainment, let alone pageantry, was completely foreign to me.
The physical aspects of the pageant were daunting. I had never worn high heels before, and suddenly I found myself having to master walking confidently in six-inch heels. It was not just about walking; it was about strutting flawlessly, with grace and poise, something that took countless hours of practice and perseverance.
Then came the swimsuit portion. I had never been comfortable wearing swimsuits, let alone being judged in one. This was a significant mental hurdle I had to overcome. It required not just physical preparation but a complete shift in mindset, to be comfortable and confident in my own skin. However, I ended up winning best in a swimsuit to my pleasant surprise!
Balancing my academic commitments and pageant training was another enormous challenge. I was flying out of school every weekend to train, sacrificing crucial academic time. This investment of time and resources was nerve-wracking. The more I invested, the more compelled I felt to succeed, which added to the pressure.
But the most significant struggle was internal. Pageantry is all about performance, about how you present yourself. This meant that the most crucial work had to be done on the inside. I had to build my self-confidence to truly believe in myself and my abilities. This internal transformation was the hardest but the most rewarding part of my journey. It was about learning to love and accept myself, to face my fears head-on, and to radiate confidence.
In summary, the road was anything but smooth. It was an uphill journey of self-discovery, overcoming physical and mental barriers, and learning to balance multiple aspects of my life. But it was these struggles that shaped me into who I am today, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Outside of being a Biomedical Engineering student at Northwestern University, I’m the founder of ‘Purity’, the highest-rated app for gout management. This venture is particularly close to my heart, as it was inspired by my father’s struggle with the condition. I coded the app myself, focusing on creating a user-friendly, informative, and supportive tool for those suffering from gout and other forms of arthritis. ‘Purity’ now serves tens of thousands of patients worldwide, offering them resources and management tools to better handle their condition. What sets ‘Purity’ apart is its personal touch, born from a genuine desire to help, and its continuous evolution based on real user feedback.
Professionally, I’m a product manager in Silicon Valley, deeply immersed in the world of emerging technologies. My role involves staying at the forefront of technological advancements, understanding market needs, and guiding the development of products that are not only innovative but also impactful. My focus is on creating technologies that are accessible, user-friendly, and that enhance the quality of life.
Moreover, my commitment to learning and growth has led me to travel globally, attend conferences, and speak at events. These experiences have been instrumental in expanding my knowledge and understanding of topics like longevity and wellness technologies. I believe in a future where health technologies are not just advanced but also accessible to all, regardless of their location or economic status.
What I’m most proud of, brand-wise, is the integration of empathy and technology in everything I do. Whether it’s developing ‘Purity’, working in big tech, or speaking at large events, my focus is always on how technology can be used to better human lives.
I want readers to know that my brand and offerings are not just about technology for technology’s sake. They are about using technology as a tool for wellness, empowerment, and positive change. My journey in pageantry, technology, and wellness are all interconnected, each aspect fueling and informing the others. It’s this unique blend of passions and expertise that sets my work apart and drives me forward.
Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
As a born and raised Los Angeles native, there’s so much about this city that I hold close to my heart. What I love most about LA is its vibrant and diverse culture. It’s a melting pot of different backgrounds, ideas, and lifestyles, which makes it such a unique and exciting place to live. The creative energy here is palpable, whether it’s in the arts, music, fashion, or technology. This diversity not only enriches our cultural experiences but also fosters an environment of innovation and creativity.
Another aspect of LA that I adore is the weather. The sunny, mild climate year-round is something that always uplifts my spirits and encourages an active, outdoor lifestyle. Whether it’s hiking in the hills, relaxing on the beach, or exploring the various neighborhoods, there’s always something to do outside.
The food scene in LA is also incredible. From food trucks to high-end restaurants, the variety and quality of food available here are unparalleled. It’s a foodie’s paradise, offering cuisines from all corners of the world.
However, there are aspects of LA that I like less. Traffic, for one, is a significant downside. It can be incredibly frustrating and time-consuming to navigate, and it impacts the quality of life in terms of time and stress. Additionally, while LA is known for its glitz and glamour, it’s impossible to ignore the socioeconomic disparities and homelessness crisis in the city. These are complex issues that require thoughtful and compassionate solutions.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: instagram.com/arianapinedaofficial
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ariana-pineda-a2022113b
Image Credits
Tom Phan Huy Khiem
