“One of the biggest challenges facing the United States is social and economic inequality. How do we narrow the gap between the rich and poor?” Miss USA judge, Nigel Barker asked Nadia during the challenging question and answer portion of the competition.
After taking what looked like a big gulp, Nadia replied, “When it comes to social and economic inequality, I think that the rich and the poor need to stop being so segregated. I think there is a middle class. I think that the rich need to be less rich and the poor need to stop being poor.” What came next was a super long pause — Nadia clearly blanked! But she then smiled, closed her eyes, and took a deep breath. Aw, poor Nadia!
But even still, Nadia made it to the final five, which is a HUGE success in our books. There’s no question she was a fierce competitor. Here are five must-know facts about Miss California:
1. She’s the daughter of Rico Suave — a well-known rapper and singer from the 90’s.
Her father, whose real name is Gerardo Mejia, is from Ecuador and released his hit single in 1990 on his 1991 album Mo’Ritmo. The track peaked at number seven on the Billboard’s Hot 100 chart and reached number two on the Hot Rap Single chart a week earlier. It was one of the first major U.S. songs to feature both Spanish and English. Pretty cool, huh?
2. Nadia is a profesional model
She’s a full-time model and has worked for impressive brands such as Nordstrom, PacSun, Tilly’s, Reef, and Wet Seal. But although she’s a model for a living, Nadia’s dream is to one day open and own a Latin American Fusion Restaurant
3. Nadia’s mother was actually a Miss USA contestant too!
Like mother, like daughter! Nadia’s mom, Kathy Eicher, competed in Miss USA too back in 1989. She held the title of Miss West Virginia USA.
4. Nadia has struggled with anorexia.
When Nadia was younger, she suffered from anorexia due to social pressures to look “perfect.” She credits her family for saving her life and is now a spokesperson for the National Eating Disorder Association. SO inspirational!
5. She sings!
Nadia takes after her dad and enjoys singing on stage. She says he helped give her the confidence that she has today. Aw!
Tell us, HollywoodLifers — were you a fan of Miss California?