We had the good fortune of connecting with Dina Alsaid and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Dina, how have you been keeping yourself busy during quarantine?
I actually kept myself busy by working out every day. I belong to the gym called Hotworx and during the quarantine they released virtual training programs on their app and every day I did at least 30 minutes of some type of isometric workout plus worked out on my treadmill. I did not want to become so frazzled that I would lose touch with myself and not be able to take care of my kids and still be their mom and their teacher. I wanted to take care of myself mentally and not just physically.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Honestly, I am a stay-at-home mother. But that affords me the opportunity to advocate on behalf of autism awareness. I am a special needs mom and I use pageantry to promote my platform. One of the greatest aspects of competing in pageantry is that my family and I compete together so to say. Whenever you see me, you see my husband and kids right behind me. We are kind of a living testament as to how important advocacy and early intervention truly is.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I know one of the 1st places would have to be the Fort Worth stockyards especially if you have never been to Texas before. And I live in Richardson so we are A cornucopia of culturally diverse restaurants and communities. I think we could spend a weeks vacation just restaurant hopping.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I love my American Elegance Pageant system family. This entire year has been emotionally and mentally exhausting. My sister queens have been there for me, every step of the way.

Instagram: Dmalsaid
Twitter: Dmalsaid
Facebook: Ms. Elegance International 2018-19

Image Credits
Photographers: Kieone Young Salam Ismail