Zowie Cruz is Miss Northern Marianas Earth 2023

Zowie Cruz was crowned Miss Northern Marianas Earth 2023 at an event held by Exquisite Productions Marianas Inc. last Friday, Sept. 22, at the Gilbert C. Ada Gymnasium.

Cruz, who was 2019 Miss Northern Marianas Water, succeeds Miss Earth Northern Marianas 2022 Katherine Maria Johnson. There was no pageant this year and her appointment was through the board’s votes.

Cruz, 22 years old of Filipino descent, is representing the NMI in the Miss Earth 2023 pageant in Vietnam this December.

In an interview, Cruz said of her appointment, “I would like to start off by saying that I am truly honored to be the newly crowned Miss Northern Marianas Earth 2023. I’m very excited and committed to using this platform to drive a positive change as well as amplifying environmental voices.”

She added, “Being appointed as Miss Earth NMI 2023 has given me a great opportunity to showcase the natural beauty, cultural traditions, and commitment to environmental sustainability that the CNMI holds. Let us remember that Miss Earth is not just a crown but a responsibility to advocate for the wellbeing of our mother earth.”

She then expressed her gratitude to the Miss Earth organization for making her journey possible.

“I am filled with excitement and determination. I am eager to embark on this incredible journey as your Miss Northern Marianas Earth 2023. With each and every one of your support I believe that we can create a cleaner and healthier future.”

Dee Clayton, one of the event’s organizers, said that Cruz is “confident, determined, and has a great personality. She is humble and friendly and she will do great.”

According to their Facebook page, Miss Northern Marianas Earth takes pride in promoting environmental awareness, conservation and social responsibility, not only to the community but worldwide.