Wisconsin Rapids teen seeks crown to honor Slovak heritage

WISCONSIN RAPIDS – Maya Hernandez will step onto the stage June 21 with more than just talent and poise — she'll carry the weight of family history and the pride of her Slovak ancestors.

The Wisconsin Rapids native is one of two candidates competing for the Miss Czech-Slovak Wisconsin 2025-26 title at the 25th state pageant, held during the 40th Phillips Czechoslovakian Festival at Elk Lake Park.

For Hernandez, who goes by Miss Trenčin in the competition, the pageant represents far more than a crown and sash. It's a bridge connecting her to Horovce, a small town in the Trenčin region of Slovakia where her mother's family originated.

"I want to run for Miss Czech Slovak this year to celebrate and honor my heritage, connect more deeply with the traditions and values passed down through my family, and represent my community with pride," Hernandez said.

The recent Lincoln High School graduate plans to attend the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point in the fall, where she'll play lacrosse while pursuing her studies. But first, she'll take the stage to perform "A Ja Taka Dzivočka," a traditional Slovakian folk song that echoes the melodies her ancestors might have known.

The competition includes four categories: private interview, on-stage interview, kroje modeling — featuring traditional Czech and Slovak folk costumes — and talent. Public events begin at 10 a.m. Saturday.

Hernandez faces Baldwin resident Ashlee Hanson, who traces her Slovak roots to the Tatra Mountains and the village of Vazec. Hanson, competing as Miss Hiben, plans to perform the "Prom Polka" and will attend UW-Eau Claire for nursing.

The pageant serves as more than entertainment for the Phillips festival, now in its 40th year. It's become a cultural cornerstone, preserving and celebrating the heritage of Czech, Slovak, Rusyn, Moravian and Silesian immigrants who helped shape Wisconsin's identity.

"This opportunity allows me to grow personally, share my culture with others, and inspire younger generations to embrace their roots," Hernandez said.

The winner will succeed current Miss Czech-Slovak Wisconsin Megan Moucha, who will perform her talent both Saturday afternoon and evening.

Four teenagers will also participate as Royal Court members, a non-competitive program designed to educate young people about their Central European heritage. The court includes returning member Sophia Lenz of Phillips, along with first-time participants Claire Lenz of Phillips, Esther Carlson of Phillips, and Izzie Isakson of Wausau.

The day begins with candidates attending the Lidice Memorial Service, honoring the Czech village destroyed by Nazis in 1942. Evening festivities conclude with a dance at Rock Garden Tavern featuring the Cynor Classics Polka Band.

For Hernandez, Saturday's competition represents the culmination of months of preparation and a lifetime of cultural curiosity. Win or lose, she'll have honored the legacy of those who made the journey from Slovakia to Wisconsin, carrying their traditions forward into a new generation.

The pageant begins at 10 a.m. Saturday at Elk Lake Park in Phillips. Evening events start at 6 p.m.