BY ABRAHAM TINKLEPAUGH

This year’s Miss North Ogden, Paris Matthews, is a devoted member of Northern Utah’s community with strong family ties to Ogden. She’s also a certified Child Life Specialist and founder of Power of Play, a charitable initiative focused on providing hospitalized children with toys and playing materials to help increase coping and decrease stress.

To become a certified Child Life Specialist, Matthews completed two 120-hour practicums in Utah and one at a pediatric hospital in Sweden. She then completed a 600-hour clinical internship at Golisano Children’s Hospital in New York. Matthews also holds a Bachelor of Science from the University of Utah.

When asked what her pageant experience taught her that she didn’t know beforehand, Matthews said, “I learned that I had much more grit and resilience than I ever imagined. I learned that no dream was too big for me, and I am so excited to represent North Ogden at Miss Utah in June.”

Her greatest inspiration comes from the children she works with who go through mental and physical battles with great determination. “They inspire me to live with intention and kindness,” said Matthews.

Visit powerofhospitalplay.com to make a toy or monetary donation.

Congratulations on your reigning crown, Paris, and thank you for being an inspiration to not only young people but also our community.