Lehua Hawaii pageant queens crowned

Keahe Guiteras was crowned Miss Teen Lehua Hawaii by outgoing queen Anne Roth during Lehua Hawaii Productions’ fifth annual pageant July 29 at the Afook-Chinen Civic Auditorium.

Faith Picar succeeded Raynn Dangaran in the Young Miss division.

The pageant originally was scheduled for July 23 but was postponed because of Tropical Storm Darby.

Guiteras won the gown competition en route to the Miss Teen title. Guiteras, 14, is a freshman at Waiakea High School and daughter of Justin and Koryn Neeson.

Kiana Johnson was named first princess in the Miss Teen competition, winning the interview phase, and Uilani Reis was crowned second princess, placing first in the talent competition. Maya Oshiro received the swimsuit trophy.

In the Young Miss competition, Picar placed first in all four divisions — interview, ethnic costume, talent and evening dress. Picar is an eighth-grader at Waiakea Intermediate School and daughter of Sevey Picar and Helen Fuentes.

Rounding out the Young Miss court is first princess Kilinahe Arquero and second princess Maya Kaleo.

Guiteras and Picar will go on to compete in the Miss Hawaii High School and Junior Miss Hawaii High School state pageant Nov. 12 at the Hawaii Convention Center on Oahu.

“This year, we were truly inspired by our contestant’s commitment and growth over the past few months of pageant training,” said Lehua pageant director Rachelle Agrigado.

“Despite the challenges we faced with the things we couldn’t control, namely Tropical Storm Darby, our contestants showed their spirit and resilience in the face of adversity. This captures the true essence of Lehua Hawaii Productions and the journey of strength and perseverance they guide the young women of our community on,” Agrigado said.

For more information about the Lehua organization and pageant, visit www.lehuahawaiiproductions.com.