Miss GB SY Leonie Rowen Finalist

My Story

Firstly Hello Everyone, my names Leonie Rowen. I have been supporting this charity since around 2012 when I lost my step dad to brain cancer. Fast forward to 2020 when I was diagnosed with Thyroid Cancer. I have made it my mission ever since to 1. Work/volunteer for a charity and 2. Raise money each year since my diagnosis. I am so lucky that I am a survivor. I will continue to raise money for this incredible charity as I owe it my life! Being diagnosed with cancer scared my anxiety (negative thinking) away- instead I only had life to look forward too. So that’s why in 2026 I have entered for Miss GB South Yorkshire, something SO out of my comfort zone yet something so close to my heart. My Nannan who was my biggest fan peacefully passed away in 2022 and my life changed again. I am doing this pageant in her honour, to burst through my confidence and make my family/friends proud! The Miss Great Britain Organisation have raised over £330,000 for Cancer Research UK in 6 incredible fundraising years. In 2025 alone they raised almost £90,000. Not only this, the finalists have shared vital awareness on different cancer types and been advocates for screening and campaigning for change. Together we are funding life saving research and helping women and men across the UK be even more cancer aware. We thank you for your vital support in our mission to keep families together for longer. Together we are beating cancer! I was told by health professionals “You are healthy and we are happy for the lump to remain on your neck.” I asked for it to be removed and only then it was found to be cancer. I am here urge anyone who’s ever found a lump to “get it checked” honestly I’ll come with you and hold your hand. I promise, it’s quite literally life changing!