Shelby Howell, the newly crowned Miss Maine USA 2025, is making waves across the United States—not only for her beauty but for the powerful story that fuels her journey. Representing strength, elegance, and purpose, Shelby is far more than just a pretty face in a sash. Her multifaceted background includes experiences in modeling, acting, music, entrepreneurship, and even international pageantry.
Whether you’re a fan of pageants or just love an inspiring comeback story, here are 11 things you should know about Shelby Howell, the rising star and pride of Maine.
1. She Is the Official Miss Maine USA 2025
Shelby Howell was officially crowned Miss Maine USA 2025, earning her place to compete in the prestigious Miss USA pageant. Her poise, intelligence, and elegance captured the hearts of both the judges and audience. This title is not just a crown—it represents Shelby’s hard work, confidence, and persistence.
Her win reflects the modern pageant ideal: beauty with brains, purpose, and heart.
2. She Won an International Crown Before This
Shelby isn’t new to the international stage. In 2023, she was crowned Miss CosmoWorld in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, representing the United States. Competing against candidates from all over the world, she secured the crown and even took home the Miss Photogenic award. This competition emphasized confidence, leadership, and global awareness.
Her performance on an international platform solidified her as a formidable competitor and an ambassador of American elegance.
→ Source: Pageant Circle
3. She Was Once Crowned Miss Multiverse America
Back in 2019, Shelby Howell was crowned Miss Multiverse America, which is not your traditional beauty pageant. The Miss Multiverse contest tests mental strength, business skills, leadership, fitness, and emotional intelligence. It’s a competition for “the most amazing woman on earth,” and Shelby represented America on a global scale.
→ Source: Famous TV Celebrities
4. She Overcame Bullying and Body Shaming
Shelby’s past isn’t all glitter and glamour. During her school years, she was bullied for being overweight. This painful experience became her turning point. Instead of letting it define her, she used the pain as fuel for self-improvement and self-love.
Today, Shelby actively advocates against bullying and shares her story to empower young girls facing similar struggles. She wants them to know that self-worth is never defined by others’ opinions.
5. She Plans to Launch a Plus-Size Fashion Line
Inspired by her own journey of body positivity, Shelby plans to launch a plus-size clothing line for girls and teens. Her vision is to create a brand that helps young girls feel confident, fashionable, and proud of who they are—regardless of their size.
This mission sets her apart as a queen with a cause.
6. She’s a Professional Model and Actress
Shelby is signed with the Mavrick Artists Agency and has worked as a professional fashion model. From high-end runway work to print and commercial ads, she’s built a strong career in front of the camera.
Her work as an actress also speaks volumes about her versatility and creative talent, making her a well-rounded personality in the entertainment and fashion industry.
→ Source: Miss West Coast Pageant
7. Community Service Is Close to Her Heart
Beyond glitz and glam, Shelby actively participates in community work. She has been a volunteer at the Ronald McDonald House, a charity close to her heart. Her family once relied on their services during a difficult time, and she now gives back to the same community that helped hers.
Shelby’s compassion makes her a role model for pageant queens everywhere.
8. She’s An Advocate for Fitness and Healthy Living
Shelby turned her life around physically and mentally. She’s now an advocate for fitness, nutrition, and holistic wellness. She runs, practices yoga, and enjoys strength training—not to meet beauty standards, but to maintain her own mental and physical balance.
Her journey shows that true fitness comes from self-love, not social pressure.
9. She Has a Creative Side: Music and Poetry
Not many people know this, but Shelby is a self-taught pianist and writes poetry in her free time. These artistic outlets help her stay grounded and emotionally expressive. She believes in the healing power of music and words, and often shares her work on social platforms to connect with her followers.
10. She’s Business-Minded and Entrepreneurial
Shelby is not just a model or titleholder—she’s an aspiring entrepreneur. Having studied business and entrepreneurship, she plans to start her own brand in the fashion and wellness space. Her entrepreneurial spirit is a testament to her independence and vision.
She wants young girls to see beauty queens not as trophies, but as trailblazers.
11. She’s a Veteran of the Pageant World
Shelby Howell’s crown didn’t come overnight. She’s been part of the pageant scene since her teen years. She previously held the Miss West Coast Teen title and competed in multiple regional and national events.
These years of experience helped her master the art of public speaking, presentation, and grace under pressure.
→ Source: Miss West Coast Pageant
Final Thoughts
Shelby Howell’s story is one of grit, grace, and growth. From being bullied in her early years to becoming an international queen and now the face of Maine at Miss USA 2025, her journey is a masterclass in self-belief and purpose.
What truly makes her stand out is not just the crown on her head, but the heart she carries underneath it. Whether she’s walking the runway, sharing her story, or lifting up young girls, Shelby Howell is redefining what it means to be a beauty queen in 2025.
Want to learn more about her journey and upcoming appearances? Stay connected through official pageant portals like Miss USA or follow her journey via state pageant sources.
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