


Myrthe Koeken embodies a modern vision of beauty, one where purpose, compassion, and authenticity stand at the heart of every achievement. Crowned Miss Intercelestial Netherlands 2026, she represents far more than elegance and poise; she represents a generation of women determined to use their voices to create meaningful change.
Working full-time in healthcare while preparing for the international stage, Myrthe has built a journey defined by dedication, resilience, and service. Her path through pageantry has strengthened her confidence, expanded her leadership skills, and provided her with a powerful platform to advocate for causes that matter deeply to her. Among them is her commitment to supporting Free a Girl Netherlands, an organization dedicated to combating child sexual exploitation and protecting vulnerable children.
What makes Myrthe truly stand out is her unwavering belief that real influence comes from authenticity. Having overcome her own insecurities, she now encourages young women to embrace their individuality, trust their inner strength, and never change themselves to fit the expectations of others.
As she prepares to represent the Netherlands on the international stage in Indonesia, Myrthe carries with her a message that extends far beyond competition. She hopes to inspire others to believe in themselves, stand up for what is right, and understand that making a difference does not begin with a crown—it begins the moment someone chooses to use their voice for good.

1.- Myrthe, congratulations on being crowned Miss Intercelestial Netherlands 2026. What did that exact moment of receiving the crown mean to you personally?
For me it means a lot. That All my hard works pays off. But also dat i can use a bigger platform to tell my story and share my advocacy.
2.- Now that you officially hold the title of Miss Intercelestial Netherlands 2026, how would you describe the responsibility and purpose that come with wearing this crown?
For me, holding the title of Miss Intercelestial Netherlands 2026 means much more than simply wearing a crown. It is a great honor, but also a significant responsibility.
This title gives me the opportunity to inspire others, raise awareness about important issues, and proudly represent the Netherlands. I want to use my platform to promote greater awareness of safety for everyone. Everyone deserves to feel safe and respected, regardless of their age, background, or identity.
That is why I actively support Free a Girl Netherlands, an organization dedicated to combating the sexual exploitation of children. By using my voice and my platform, I hope to contribute to greater awareness, prevention, and a safer future for everyone.
I see this crown as a symbol of connection, growth, and positive impact. My goal is to be a role model who encourages others to believe in themselves, pursue their dreams, and make a difference in their own communities.
I hope that during my year as Miss Intercelestial Netherlands 2026, I can leave a lasting impact and inspire people to become the best version of themselves.
3.- Every pageant journey transforms a woman in different ways. Looking at yourself today, how has this experience shaped you both personally and professionally?
Throughout this journey, I have grown in many different ways. I have become more confident and stronger as a person. I learned how to walk the runway, but I also found the courage to speak in front of an audience.
On a personal level, I have changed significantly and developed a new perspective on myself and others. Professionally, this experience has opened many doors for me. I have had the opportunity to support other pageants and even host another show.
This journey has not only helped me discover new skills but has also shown me the importance of stepping outside my comfort zone and embracing every opportunity for growth.
4.- Your elegance and authenticity are qualities people quickly notice. What do you believe makes your presence unique on an international pageant stage?
For me, it already means a great deal to have the opportunity to stand on an international stage. That is why it is so important for me to stay true to who I am. I am not going to change myself to fit expectations.
I do not need a crown to make an impact, because I started doing that long before entering pageantry. I have already created meaningful change, and I will continue to use my voice and my platform to make a difference.
What makes my presence unique is my authenticity, my determination, and my commitment to the causes I care about. I believe that true influence comes from being genuine and staying true to your values.
5.- As Miss Intercelestial Netherlands, you are now representing not only yourself but also your country. What aspects of Dutch culture or values would you most like to share with the world?
In the Netherlands, we take pride in our multicultural society, where everyone is welcome and valued. This is something that is very important to me personally.
I believe that everyone deserves to feel safe, respected, and included, regardless of their background, identity, or beliefs. I understand that in many parts of the world, this is not always the reality and that equal rights are not guaranteed for everyone.
That is why I want to use my voice and my platform to promote inclusivity, equality, and safety for all. I believe that by embracing our differences and treating one another with respect, we can create a more compassionate and united world.
6.- Pageantry today goes far beyond beauty. What causes or social messages would you like to champion during your reign?
I am committed to promoting safety for everyone, because I believe that every person deserves to feel safe and protected.
That is why I am involved with Free a Girl Netherlands, an organization dedicated to combating the sexual exploitation of children and helping to rescue victims.
To support this cause, I organized a charity walk to raise funds and increase awareness. Through my platform, I hope to continue advocating for prevention, education, and a safer future for all.
7.- Preparing for an international competition requires discipline and focus. What does your preparation routine look like at this stage of your journey?
In about two months, I will be flying to Indonesia. It is all becoming very exciting now!
At the moment, I am also working full-time in healthcare. Alongside this, I am preparing for my international competition. I am doing this with the help of some of the best coaches in the Netherlands. They are supporting me with my catwalk, Q&A, and speech training.
In addition, I am busy selecting the best outfits that represent me as a person. For this, I am in contact with exclusive boutiques in the Netherlands.
8.- Confidence on stage often reflects strong inner growth. What lessons about self-belief have you learned along the way that you would like to share with young women?
When I was younger I was always a insecure girl and comparing myself with other girls. That is really bad. Because I believe that everyone is unique and have ther own power. You don’t have to change yourself for others. You are beautiful. And I think that you are the most beautiful person when you shine from the inside. The whole universe will light up.
9.- In a world shaped by digital influence and social media, how do you plan to use your platform to inspire and connect with people globally?
I see social media as something positive, a place where people can connect with each other, share stories, help one another, and show support.
Through social media, I can create more awareness for my advocacy, and I actively use it to bring important topics to light. There are many exciting things coming up in the future as well.
At the same time, I believe that real impact also comes from connecting with people in real life. That is why I also focus on in-person engagement, because it allows for deeper connection and stronger influence.
For example, I will be giving guest lectures about Free a Girl, and I am planning to organize another charity walk in 2027, which will be even bigger than before.
10.- Many young women dream of following a similar path in pageantry. What advice would you give to someone who wants to pursue this world but feels unsure of where to begin?
Just do it! Because if not now, then when? This is your time to shine.
Go to a casting at Be Pretty Pageantry, prepare yourself, and don’t be afraid to ask advice from titleholders. When I started in pageantry, I was also insecure. But pageantry has given me so much.
I have grown as a person, I know who I am and what I stand for, and I have learned to speak up for myself.
So my advice is: just do it, and most importantly, enjoy the journey.
11.- Every queen faces challenges behind the glamour. What has been the most demanding moment of your journey so far, and how did you overcome it?
One of the most demanding moments in my journey was learning to balance everything at the same time. Working full-time in healthcare while preparing for an international competition was both physically and mentally challenging.
There were moments where I felt tired and overwhelmed, especially when I had to train for catwalk, Q&A, and speeches after long working days. It required a lot of discipline, focus, and sacrifice.
What helped me overcome this was my passion and my purpose. I reminded myself why I started this journey and what I want to represent. The support from my coaches and the people around me also played a very important role.
This experience taught me that growth happens outside of your comfort zone, and that perseverance can turn challenges into strength.
12.- When you look ahead to the international stage, what excites you the most about representing the Netherlands at Miss Intercelestial?
What I like most is that I have the honor of representing my country, which makes me very proud. I am also really looking forward to meeting all the other contestants, connecting with them, and inspiring each other.
I enjoy supporting others and learning more about their cultures, as I believe this is what makes international pageantry so special. It is a beautiful opportunity to grow, share experiences, and build meaningful connections across the world.
13.- Beyond the crown, what legacy would you like to leave during your time as Miss Intercelestial Netherlands 2026?
Beyond the crown, I would like my legacy to be one of awareness, compassion, and action.
I hope that people remember me not only for the title, but for the message I stand for: that everyone deserves to feel safe, valued, and heard. Safety is something I deeply care about, and I want to continue raising awareness about this, especially through my work with Free a Girl Netherlands.
My goal is to use my platform to create real impact by inspiring conversations, encouraging action, and supporting initiatives that protect and empower others.
If there is one thing I hope to leave behind, it is the belief that you do not need a crown to make a difference, you can start making an impact the moment you decide to use your voice.
14.-Myrthe, what message would you like to share with your supporters, followers, and everyone who believes in your journey?
I want to thank everyone who has supported me throughout my journey. Without all of you, I wouldn’t have been able to do this. You have always pushed me to go further, and I am very grateful for that.
Because of all of you, I have grown so much as a person. This is only the beginning.
Interview conducted by Jaime Mybs with Myrthe Koeken – Netherlands
English language
Interview authorized : Myrthe Koeken – Perumira – Jaime Mybs
All Rights Reserved in the name of Myrthe Koeken – Perumira – Jaime Mybs
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