Emotional Spotlight: A Daughter’s Prayer on the Road to Mrs. Universe California 2025
In a poignant moment that touched many watching, Mrs. Universe California 2025 winner Czarina Umali spoke candidly about her mother, Belinda, who is currently undergoing chemotherapy for cancer. The intimate interview at the Kingsford Hotel captured a rare mix of pride, vulnerability, and determination as the titleholder prepared to represent her state on a global stage.
With tears glistening in her eyes, Czarina recalled the anticipation and excitement her mother would feel upon arriving in Manila to cheer her on. “Nag che-chemotherapy pa siya, and she’s flying here. I hope you are proud of me. I want to become a great mother, even half as good as you are. Kung kaya kong tumbasan kahit kalahati lang, I’ve done my job. I love my mom,” she said, her voice shaking with emotion. Her words underscored not just a pageant journey, but a family’s resilience in the face of illness.
The moment grew heavier as she shared another, more personal layer: the memory of an aunt who passed away from breast cancer. “I know breast cancer is treatable, but for some of us, it is still very scary.” Her Christmas wish—simple and powerful—was for her mother to regain health so they could continue their cherished family traditions. “Health is wealth,” she said, emphasizing the stakes that anchor her advocacy and daily life.
Advocacy Beyond the Stage: Turning Pain into Purpose
Czarina’s preparation for the Mrs. Universe platform is rooted in a broader mission. She has aligned with Breast Cancer Angels for breast cancer advocacy and Ashes to Diamonds for domestic violence awareness. She views pageantry not merely as a competition, but as a vessel to reach and empower women worldwide.
“I want to utilize the influence I already have, which is singing and dancing with the Mrs. Universe platform, to smooth my trajectory so that I can reach as many women as possible. You cannot put me in a box, and that’s what makes me relatable to anyone, regardless of age,” she said, outlining a vision that blends performance with meaningful outreach.
Pageantry as a Platform for Empowerment
For Czarina, pageantry serves as a vibrant arena where women can pursue passions with confidence while advancing important causes. She challenges the notion that pageantry has an expiration date, arguing that advocacy and charisma can travel beyond youth. “If you have an advocacy and are passionate about it, then you should get a broader platform and reach as many women as possible. After all, these young women will become us. That’s why the Mrs. Universe pageant remains relevant.”
Born in Oriental Mindoro and raised in the United States, Czarina proudly embraces her Mangyan heritage while building a multifaceted career as a licensed realtor, singer, dancer, and model. The journey spans a 30-year residency in the U.S., where she balanced family life with professional ambitions, including opening acts for renowned Filipino artists in Southern California.
Family, Faith, and Personal Growth
At 11, Czarina moved with her family to the U.S. Yet she maintained a strong connection to her roots and language. She speaks candidly about her marriage to a Chinese-American partner and their three children, describing the couple’s routine that keeps their bond strong: regular gym sessions, shared performances, and the occasional dance class or singing gig that fuels her soul.
Her message to her younger self is a testament to perseverance: stay grounded in your morals, surround yourself with family, and let passion propel you forward. “The best is yet to come, and we are doing so great right now.”
As she continues her journey in California’s pageantry scene, Czarina remains a symbol of strength—celebrating family ties, cultural heritage, and the power of women to advocate for health and safety while pursuing their dreams.
Looking Ahead
With a heart full of hope for her mother and a career poised for impact, Czarina’s path reflects the broader narrative of modern pageantry: beauty, talent, and advocacy united to uplift communities. Her ongoing work with breast cancer awareness and domestic violence prevention ensures that her voice will continue to resonate long after the judges’ final decision.
