Photo courtesy of Jose Lozoya
Addison Pope
Age: 16
Education: Junior, homeschooled
What inspired you to compete in the Florida Strawberry Festival Queens pageant?
This is my first pageant, so I’m not a typical pageant girl. About nine years ago, my family went through a very difficult time when a family member who was a local farmer and heavily involved with the festival became seriously ill and passed away. During that period, the Plant City community came together to support my family in ways I didn’t fully understand until I got older. One memorable example was an auction held for our family in the same building where I competed in the pageant. Watching how the court volunteers and engages with so many aspects of the community inspired me. I decided to compete in the pageant as a way to give back and serve the community that has given so much to my family and me.
How did you prepare for the pageant- mentally, physically, emotionally?
For me, preparation was largely about surrounding myself with the right people. Being my first pageant, I faced questions—especially while in private school—about whether I was capable or “like the other girls.” Having a strong support system helped me navigate that. I also relied on prayer and reminded myself that it is ultimately in God’s control. If this was where He wanted me, it would happen. My family played a huge role in supporting and encouraging me throughout the process.
What part of the pageant experience challenged you the most?
One of the most challenging parts of the pageant this year was seeing so many of my friends compete and knowing that not everyone would reach this point. I love this court and am incredibly thankful for them, but it was also hard to feel sad for the other girls who worked so hard for so long. I hope they give it another try, because dedication and perseverance do pay off. That has been a difficult part of the experience for me.
What is your favorite Florida Strawberry Festival memory- past or present?
One of my favorite Florida Strawberry Festival memories happened last year when I brought a friend who had never experienced the festival before. She had never even heard about it. Over the 11 days, it was amazing to watch her come to love it as much as I do. She even went on to share the experience with others, helping to keep the festival growing and thriving.
What message do you want to share with young girls who look up to you?
My advice to young girls would be to try new things. I often call this my “year of firsts.” This is my first pageant, my first time trying cheerleading after a soccer injury and my first experience homeschooling. Each new experience has been a blessing, and I’ve learned that God’s timing is perfect in everything. Don’t be afraid to try new things—it’s always worth it.
Do you have a good luck charm or tradition you brought with you?
Something that really helped me during the pageant was a tradition I created with a few other girls backstage. We put up a wall of Bible verses strung across the curtains. While waiting to go onstage, I could read them and immediately feel a sense of peace, knowing the Lord was with me. It reminded me that my family was cheering me on no matter what and that God had placed people in my life who love and support me unconditionally. That was something that stayed with me throughout the pageant.
What is your favorite Florida Strawberry Festival food?
I’m a little biased because my family owns Brandon Farms, but my favorite Florida Strawberry Festival food is the strawberry pizza we make there. It might sound unusual, but it’s really delicious. It has a cookie crust topped with sweetened cream cheese and a strawberry glaze. It’s light on your belly and absolutely delicious.
If you could describe this moment in a few words, what would they be?
If I could describe this moment in a few words, it would be “a dream.” So many girls in Plant City work so hard for the chance to be on this court, and hearing my name called still doesn’t feel real. I was the first girl called, and at first, I thought it might be a mistake—but this is truly a dream come true.
