A SCHOOLGIRL who has overcome bullying, anxiety and her own physical challenges made it to the finals of the Miss Teen Pageant representing Gloucestershire.

Maizee-Jayne Philipson, 12, from Cirencester, was announced as a finalist last month and will now compete in the finals held in July next year. 

Maizee applied to Miss Teen Pageant on a whim after spotting an advert with her mum. 

She was diagnosed with frontal lobe epilepsy in 2015 and has also struggled with bullying at school and anxiety. 

She has become an epilepsy campaigner and hopes her story will inspire other people with disabilities and help raise awareness. 

Maizee said: “I really didn't think anything would come from the pageants. 

“We applied just to see what would happen, both me and my mum were so surprised. 

“After the year I have had and not really going out and missing most of my first year in school this gave me such a confidence boost. 

“After my first charity pageant, I gained even more confidence and some lovely friends. 

"I feel so honoured to be representing Gloucestershire for us all. 

“Also representing people with disabilities that we can do anything we wish to achieve.” 

Maizee has also struggled with bullying at school and anxiety. 

So far she has raised around £100 for Epilepsy Action and has walked 126 miles around the local area.  

Her mum Sam said the pageant competition has allowed Maizee to gain confidence in herself.

She said: “I am so proud of Maizee really seeing her come out of her shell after a really bad year. 

“The pageant has given her a platform to raise awareness and fundraising for Epilepsy Action.  

“She has been able to gain confidence in herself and form new friendships. 

“All the pageant girls are lovely and very supportive of each other.”