A County Armagh schoolgirl is living her dream as she prepares to represent Ireland at the Global Icon pageant in the United States.
Zara McKee, a pupil of Edenderry Primary School in Portadown, has been competing in pageants since she was just seven years of age, when she took part in the Miss/Ms Inner Beauty Charity Pageant.
And now only 10, she has come so far in such a short time, with success after success hinting that she has a very bright future ahead.
Zara, from Killicomaine, is the daughter of Joanne Donaldson and Stephen McKee, and her family are so proud of her achievements.
“I joined the Diamond family in 2024 and was crowned Junior Diamond Ireland,” explained Zara. “I then travelled to Wigan to compete for the EU title. Although I didn’t win that year, I was proudly crowned Diamond Ambassador.
“The following year, I returned to compete for the Diamond UK title. The competition was so strong and all the girls were amazing!
“But I never gave up. I came back again and this time I was crowned Junior Miss Diamond Ireland 2026 and now I’m heading to the internationals to represent Ireland.”
That competition – after her win at the Seagoe Hotel in Portadown at the end of March – will take Zara to the United States. While not yet confirmed, it will take place at either Las Vegas or Los Angelas in 2027.
In order to take part, the family are actively fundraising – to get Zara to the USA and for charity too!
Said mum Joanne: “She gets her place paid for but she has to fundraise for a charity and we’ve chosen the Air Ambulance. She also has to fund the likes of her hair and makeup, tan, her hotel and flights, so we’re in the middle of doing a lot of fundraising.”
Zara will be raising money to support both goals – her journey to the internationals and chosen charity – throughout her time as Junior Miss Diamond Ireland.
The Air Ambulance is a cause which is “very close to my heart”, according to the Global Icon hopeful, with the family left heartbroken after a tragedy on the Northway in Portadown.
Zara knows only too well the value of supporting the Air Ambulance NI, which attended the scene of a collision which led to the loss of her dad’s parents.
“Both of my grandparents were involved in a serious car accident and, sadly, my nanny was pronounced deceased at the scene,” explained Zara. “My grandad was airlifted to the Royal Victoria Hospital but he tragically passed away a few days later.
“Because of this, I understand just how vital the Air Ambulance service is. Their rapid response and lifesaving care make a difference in the most critical moments and I am proud to support them through my journey.”
Zara (front right) and other winners at the Diamond Ireland event.
A young lady with a wise head on her shoulders, and kindness and compassion in abundance, Zara wants to raise “as much as possible” for the Air Ambulance and to support the next step of her pageant journey.
As she looks to the future with excitement and to all that lies ahead in the land of opportunity, Zara knows that nothing is impossible with the right mindset.
To that end, her words of advice to everyone are simple yet inspiring…
“Never give up on your dreams,” urges Zara. “Work hard, believe in yourself and it will all pay off.”
Ahead of 2027, the family is now looking for support from companies and businesses, who will in turn be highlighted on Zara’s Facebook page.
If you would like to support Zara in her fundraising efforts, as a company or individual, you can get in touch at compaqmini@live.co.uk
