Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Christy-anne Lopez. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Christy-Anne, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. The more we talk about good leadership the more we think good leadership practices will spread and so we’d love for you to tell us a story about the best boss you’ve had and what they were like or what they did that was so great?
Yes, without a doubt, the best boss and mentor I’ve ever had is Noah Lands, the Founder and Owner of KAR Productions and Dancers Against Cancer charity. Noah is truly an icon in the dance competition industry, and I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have had him as both a leader and a spirit guide.
Noah has given me some of the greatest opportunities of my life—everything from hosting red carpets to producing awards shows. I owe so much of what I know about live production to him. But what truly sets him apart as a leader is how he’s fostered an environment that feels like family. Noah’s leadership is rooted in compassion, and he’s taught me how to lead with my heart, taking risks, and never being afraid to execute an idea, no matter how big or bold it might seem.
He’s also an extraordinary mentor in the way he encourages others to grow. Whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience, Noah always makes space for your development. And his philanthropic spirit is something that has left a lasting impact on me as well—he’s constantly giving back, not only to the dance community but to anyone who needs support.
Personally, Noah has been a pillar for me during some of my toughest times. When I was facing a difficult personal challenge after going through a messy divorce, he not only helped me get back on my feet but also sponsored me throughout my pageant journey. He saw my personal growth and believed in me, even when I doubted myself. That kind of generosity and genuine care is something that truly defines his leadership.
For me, Noah Lands is more than just a boss—he’s a mentor, a philanthropist, and a role model. His impact on my life and career is immeasurable, and I will always be grateful for the lessons he’s taught me. He’s the GOAT, without question.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
As the Founder of Global Icon Pageants, CEO of Studio Sash Pageant Consulting, and Owner of Goddess Glow Mobile Spray Tans, I am incredibly honored to share my journey and insights. My passion for the pageant industry has been a driving force behind everything I do, and it’s been an extraordinary privilege to hold the titles of Ms. Universe 2023, Ms. World America 2021, Ms. Philippines World 2018, and Ms. Regency International 2017. These experiences have not only shaped my personal growth but have also deepened my commitment to empowering others in the pageant world.
As a pageant coach and director, I’ve had the opportunity to mentor and guide over 50 clients to victory, helping them secure crowns at international, national, and state levels, as well as achieve prestigious awards. My goal has always been to instill confidence, refine performance skills, and ensure that every individual feels fully prepared to showcase their best selves on stage.
Through my various ventures, I strive to contribute to the beauty, empowerment, and development of individuals in this dynamic field. Whether it’s through the personalized coaching services at Studio Sash or helping contestants shine through professional spray tanning at Goddess Glow, my focus remains on providing quality and support in every aspect of the pageant journey.
As far as my journey goes, one thing led to another. I started to fall in love with the philanthropic work and the amazing opportunities you earn as a titleholder. From there, I naturally took on mentoring younger girls and helping contestants prepare for their upcoming pageant. The rewarding feeling of watching a mentee or friend that you helped get crowned is unlike any other! So, I jumped on an opportunity to acquire a pageant coaching business called Studio Sash Pageant Consulting, and it just took off. It felt so right to be a part of such a formative time in these girls’/women’s lives.
At the same time that I was developing my business, I became a pageant director. I have been an event director and producer for 10+ years for dance competitions, fashion shows, awards shows, and red carpets. Therefore, I was ready to combine my professional background with my true passion. By creating this platform, I’ve been able to see my clients and titleholders achieve incredible things! Fast forward to today, I’m very proud to launch a national and international pageant where we celebrate global diversity and unity. We have delegations from across the globe representing the UK, Africa, and Asia in our first inaugural year.
It’s my mission to continue uplifting and inspiring future queens as they step into their potential and make their own mark in the world.
How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?
What has truly helped me build my reputation in this industry is my unwavering commitment to each and every client’s growth and goals. From the moment someone works with me, I’m dedicated to guiding them toward discovering their truest, most authentic selves. I take pride in helping my clients uncover their passions, connect with their “why,” and believe in their fullest potential.
I don’t just teach them how to walk the stage or pose; I help them tap into what makes them unique and powerful as individuals. It’s about more than just the crown—it’s about personal transformation. I’ve always made it my mission to push my clients beyond their own self-imposed limits, and I think that’s what resonates with people. Those around me know that one of my favorite mottos is “Be brave.” It’s simple. Feel the fear, and go for it! And more times than not, you will succeed and be proud of the outcome.
My reputation is built on trust, authenticity, and a deep, genuine care for each of my girls. I see every single client as more than a titleholder—they’re part of my family, and their success is my success. I truly invest in their journey, and I believe that sincerity shines through in everything I do. It’s this personal connection that has allowed me to form long-lasting relationships and continue making an impact in the pageant world.
Do you have any insights you can share related to maintaining high team morale?
Managing a team and maintaining high morale is something I take great pride in, and I’m incredibly fortunate to have had amazing mentors along the way who’ve shaped my approach to leadership. These mentors instilled in me the value of strong leadership, grounded in trust, transparency, and a genuine commitment to growth.
Through my experience with Global Icon Pageants and other ventures, I’ve come to deeply appreciate the importance of having clear core values. For Global Icon Pageants, we’ve built our foundation on the acronym I.C.O.N.—Integrity, Community, Opportunity, and Nobility. These values serve as a compass for everything we do, and they are a constant reminder for our team to align our actions with a higher purpose. They are a framework we can always return to, especially during challenging moments, helping us stay focused and connected to our shared goals.
As a journalist with a communications degree, I also believe that strong communication is the cornerstone of any successful team. Open, honest dialogue fosters trust, helps resolve conflicts quickly, and ensures that everyone is on the same page. It’s essential to create a space where team members feel heard, valued, and empowered to contribute their best ideas.
At the end of the day, maintaining high morale comes down to recognizing and celebrating each individual’s unique contributions, nurturing a supportive environment, and leading by example. When the team feels that they are part of something greater, that their work matters, and that they are supported, morale stays high, and the results speak for themselves.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.missglobalicon.com
- Instagram: @christyannelopez
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/get.it.C.Lo
- Other: IG: @globaliconpageants @studiosash @goddessglow.lv
