She attended a presentation about self-confidence and body diversity by Miss Universe Canada Siera Bearchell and was inspired to chase a dream.

Assiniboia's Rachel Leduc went home that evening and applied on the Miss Teen Saskatchewan website to compete at the next upcoming pageant. She successfully completed the regional competition and won owns the title of "Miss Teen Southern Saskatchewan."

She considers herself a "small town girl" (Assiniboia's population: 2,389 according to the 2016 Census) and is still in shock from being crowned the winner.

Now proudly sporting her sash and crown, Leduc is beginning the journey to higher levels to compete at nationals in Toronto alongside another 70 participants.

She said despite recently winning her first pageant, she leads an average life.

"It's pretty normal... I'm just hanging out and going to classes, but I'm going to be taking grade 9 at Caronport High School next year so I'm very excited about that."

Leduc has been tasked with collecting donations to go towards the charity of choice chosen through the Miss Teen organization.

"One of the requirements for going to nationals is you have to raise $400 for the charity picked which is Free The Children. I will be hosting a steak night dinner and fundraiser, with a silent auction."

She will also be selling flowers at a milestone celebration from the rural community's dance studio and hopes to hit her goal before she leaves for Toronto.