Montrose resident Loren West was crowned Ms. California Woman of Achievement 2017. The United States Woman of Achievement organization hosted a pageant on Sept. 18 aboard the Queen Mary in which participants from around California competed for the title of Woman of Achievement.

In the organization’s platform-driven speaking tour and pageant, participants were judged based on an interview of their past and current academic, community and career accomplishments as well as a platform in which they support a charitable cause. Other judging criteria included fitness, speech or talent, and evening gown presentation.

“Loren will be a great California Woman of Achievement! She is organized, supportive of our organization and very much committed to other women and their success,” stated Marlena Martin, Woman of Achievement director. “She is a great connector.”

West is active in her community donating her time and resources to a variety of charitable causes. She is an active member and currently managing social media and co-chairing professional development for the American Business Women’s Association (ABWA), Verdugo Glen Chapter.

As Ms. California, her platform is women in business/entrepreneurship. West has partnered with ABWA and CPG Beauty and Beyond, where she plans to create partnerships, fundraise and speak to raise awareness about the importance and benefits of women entrepreneurship.

“I am honored to represent Woman of Achievement as Ms. California,” said West. “I look forward to supporting women to ignite their dreams and use business as a vehicle to turn their dreams into reality.”

The Woman of Achievement Pageant is a national pageant for women who are active and have achieved success in their community, charities, education, performing arts and leadership. The program is dedicated to rewarding women for their life’s work. For more information, visit http://www.womanofachievement.com