Candace Kanavel, who describes herself as a beauty queen during the day and a police officer during the night, is set to represent Arizona this Friday, as stated in an official release from the Tempe Police Department. While on the surface, these two professions may seem worlds apart, Kanavel asserts that they share remarkable similarities.
View this post on Instagram
The 27-year-old, employed as a hostage negotiator within the SWAT team, notes that the skills she acquired as an officer have proven advantageous in her journey through pageants.
“Many of the qualities required of me as an officer seamlessly translate to my role as Miss Arizona USA and vice versa. Effective communication, leadership, adaptability in various situations – these are all qualities I must possess,” she expressed in an interview with KNXV. Empowering women and fostering confidence is a central component of her platform.
Officer Kanavel stated, “When I’m in my police uniform, I’m empowered to assist people. And when I wear my sash and crown, I’m equally empowered to make a difference. Essentially, I’m performing the same role, just in different attire.” Kanavel founded “Yes She Can,” an initiative dedicated to promoting self-assurance and capability.
View this post on Instagram
“I decided to create ‘Yes She Can’, after reflecting on my journey and the common misconception that as a woman who embraces femininity, I am somehow incapable of achieving great things. It’s disheartening to see this stereotype and underestimation being shared among women in law enforcement. Society often associates femininity with weakness.
That couldn’t be further from the truth ” she conveyed passionately. Kanavel emphasized her objective of offering those, in the field of law enforcement a glimpse into the lives of officers highlighting their interests, families, and various aspects beyond their professional roles.