Crowning of the 2025 Queen of Rosaria
On a sunny Friday morning, Oregon Square in Northeast Portland became a vibrant setting for the crowning of the 2025 Queen of Rosaria. Community members gathered to witness a celebration of youth leadership and dedication to service.
The Rose Festival Princesses
A total of fifteen remarkable Rose Festival princesses, each boasting a minimum 3.0 GPA and a commitment to their communities, made their way down the iconic red carpet. These inspiring teens were gracefully accompanied by the esteemed Royal Rosarians, showcasing the blend of tradition and youthful energy.
Wisdom from the 2024 Queen
Kobi Flowers, the 2024 Queen of Rosaria, addressed the attending crowd, urging the princesses to “lead with your heart.” Her message resonated deeply, emphasizing the significance of community involvement and the shared experience of the event.
Ava Rathi: The New Queen of Rosaria
Following a heartfelt announcement by Rose Festival President Jeremy Emerson, Ava Rathi from Lincoln High School was crowned the next Queen of Rosaria. At just 17, Ava’s exceptional academic and extracurricular achievements set her apart as a role model for her peers.
A Bright Future Ahead
Ava Rathi is set to attend Trinity College Dublin in Ireland, where she plans to study political science, philosophy, and economics. Her commitment to education and community service reflects the values celebrated during the Rose Festival.
Inspiring Community Service
Rathi’s dedication to community service is exemplified by her work with Mission:Citizen, a nonprofit that provides tutoring for individuals preparing for the U.S. naturalization exam. She spoke passionately about the transformative experience of witnessing one of her students achieve citizenship.
Conclusion
As the festivities unfolded, it was clear that the Rose Festival in Northeast Portland is more than a celebration; it is a platform for inspiring the next generation of leaders. Ava Rathi embodies this spirit, and her reign as Queen of Rosaria promises to further enrich the community.
