South Florida Celebrates Inclusion, Confidence and Friendship at the 2026 Miss Arc Broward Pageant
Applause, smiles, and heartfelt moments filled the theater as families, friends, volunteers, and community supporters gathered to celebrate the remarkable achievements of girls and teens with disabilities during the 13th Annual Miss Arc Broward Pageant. Held at the historic The Parker, the event was much more than a pageant.
It was a powerful celebration of confidence, inclusion, friendship, and belonging—values that have become the foundation of this beloved South Florida tradition.
After months of preparation, mentorship, and special activities designed to help participants develop self-confidence and build lasting friendships, contestants took the stage to showcase their personalities, talents, and unique abilities before an enthusiastic audience.
This year’s top honors were awarded to 12-year-old Katie Lorenzo of Pembroke Pines, who was crowned Miss Arc Broward, and 7-year-old Samantha Bellot of Pompano Beach, who earned the title of Little Miss Arc Broward. Lorenzo captivated the audience with a vocal performance from Disney’s The Princess and the Frog, while Bellot delighted attendees with an energetic dance performance alongside her older brother.
Additional recognition was presented to Rebecca Baken of Davie, who received the People’s Choice Award, and Kiely Vassar of Fort Lauderdale, who earned the Top Fundraiser Award for her outstanding efforts supporting the program.
According to Julie Price, President and CEO of Arc Broward, the event represents far more than a competition.“The Miss Arc Broward Pageant reminds us every year of the power of belonging,” Price said. “It empowers girls and teens with disabilities while encouraging the community to actively participate in creating an environment where everyone feels valued and included.”
Throughout the event, contestants participated in personality and interview segments, sharing their stories, dreams, and accomplishments with judges and attendees. Co-chair and emcee Natalie Glusman guided the audience through the program, emphasizing that the experience extends far beyond the stage.
“This pageant creates a sisterhood that stays with the girls and their families long after the crowns are awarded,” Glusman said.
One of the most emotional moments came when teen ambassadors shared their experiences mentoring contestants throughout the season.
Representing more than a dozen local high schools and sponsored by Memorial Healthcare System, the ambassadors spoke about the meaningful friendships and life lessons they gained through the program.
Community support was visible everywhere. Families, coworkers, student organizations, Girl Scouts, and JROTC members from Pompano Beach High School filled the venue with handmade signs and enthusiastic cheers for every contestant.
The event also highlighted an important milestone for Arc Broward, which is celebrating 70 years of serving individuals with disabilities and their families in 2026. Proceeds from the pageant help support the organization’s 24 programs across Broward County, providing services for children, adults, and seniors with disabilities.
More than a pageant, the Miss Arc Broward Pageant continues to demonstrate how inclusion, encouragement, and community support can transform lives—one smile, one friendship, and one dream at a time.
