A Chatham-Kent woman is using her voice to gain the attention of those in the Toronto-area.
Twenty-three year old Jacqueline Verellen recently competed in the Miss Universe Canada 2017 pageant.
Although, she didn't walk away with the crown, she did walk away with a handful of opportunities. Verellen says she won a "Star Quality Award" and was able to sing Phantom of the Opera in the pageant's finale.
"It was suggested that I come back in future years and perform for Miss Universe Canada," she says. "I also met a couple of individuals who gave me cards in regards to a Casa Loma gig in Toronto and a bunch of other awesome opportunities when it came it my singing."
Verellen says she's unsure on whether or not she'll compete in another pageant but performing in one is a likely possibility.
For now, Verellen says she'll be focusing more on her future within the music industry.
"I'm actually in the [process] of working with Factor [Foundation Assisting Canadian Talent on Recordings]," she says. "I'm hoping to get a grant and get my next song on the roll."
Verellen had previously said that the pull towards pageants was because of the talent aspect. But in the end it turned out to be a worth-while experience.
"I met 67 other amazing women from across Canada and they were some of the most inspiring people I have ever met," she says. "We raised $64,000 as a group for a charity -- Operation Smiles -- so I was really proud that as a group we came together and did that."
