From left, Debbiann Selepeo, Aunika Camacho, Kaypeonie Mendiola, Pritzel Carreon and Teresita Diaz. To learn more about a candidate or for royal court sponsorship opportunities, reach out to the LDC Royal Court Subcommittee at cnmiliberationdayroyalcourt@gmail.com/.
AS preparations are underway for the 79th Liberation Day celebrations, a new generation of inspiring young women steps into the spotlight. The 2025 Liberation Day Royal Court candidates represent the unique stories, dreams, and cultures of the Northern Mariana Islands. Hailing from Saipan, Tinian, and Rota, these young women bring pride to their home islands as they step forward not just as representatives, but as advocates for education, culture, leadership, and youth empowerment.
Teresita Arriola Diaz, Saipan
Teresita Arriola Diaz brings quiet strength and thoughtful advocacy to the group. Whether captaining a family boat ride or reflecting by the sea, Teresita finds her grounding in nature and family. Her role models, her parents, taught her more than life skills; they modeled the strength of independence and authenticity.
Teresita’s goal is to use her voice to spotlight the realities CNMI students face, such as underfunded schools, and to spark dialogue and change. ” I see the Liberation Royal Court as an opportunity to help me grow,” she shares. “It gives me the confidence to speak my truth and inspire the younger generation to pursue their dreams with confidence.”
Pritzel Carreon, Tinian
At 20 years old, Tinian native and small business owner Pritzel Carreon brings the spirit of entrepreneurship and culture to this year’s court. Owner of Bling’s Creations, Pritzel infuses her passion for arts, and traditional dance into every step of her journey.
Her biggest inspiration is her mother, her guide in resilience. With her creativity, she joined the court to build confidence and to show that intelligence, beauty, and kindness can go hand in hand. “On top of that I hope to represent our island with pride and integrity. By embracing and showcasing the rich culture, history and values that define us,” she adds.
Kaypeonie Marie Mendiola, Rota
Raised on Rota and deeply rooted in her island’s traditions, Kaypeonie Mendiola is a senior at Dr. Rita Hocog Inos Jr./Sr. High School with bold goals for her future. She plans to enlist in the U.S. Air Force, earn her nursing degree, and return home to serve her community.
A natural leader on and off the basketball court, Kaypeonie’s biggest inspirations are her mom and grandma, the strong, loving women who taught her the value of perseverance. For her, joining the Royal Court is more than pageantry: it’s a steppingstone to self-growth and a platform to inspire young women to push past limits and pursue what they love without hesitation.
Debbiann Marjorie Romolor Selepeo, Saipan
Debbiann Selepeo is a recent graduate of Saipan Southern High and a storyteller at heart. Whether she’s strumming her ukulele, writing lyrics, or reflecting at Marine Beach, her childhood sanctuary, she finds healing through music and the quiet strength of self-expression. With dreams of becoming a social worker, she sees this experience as a path to personal growth emotional openness, and an opportunity to truly know her community.
Aunika Julie’Ann M. Camacho, Saipan
Despite being only a freshman at Kagman High School, she is truly making waves.
Aunika is balancing her online classes with the goal of graduating early, while also taking on significant responsibility at home by helping to care for her younger siblings. She approaches everything she does with ambition, a strong sense of responsibility, and a contagious joy.
Her favorite outlet is Polynesian dance, a passion she’s nurtured since childhood. Inspired by her Aunt Lala’s strength and work ethic, Aunika joined the Royal Court to boost her confidence, represent her island, and show others that leadership starts with being your authentic self.
A celebration of identity and impact
These candidates are proud to represent their home islands and are excited to see what the experience brings. From aspiring entrepreneurs to future service members, each candidate offers a different perspective while standing united in their shared passion for community, tradition, and personal growth. Through this opportunity, they aim to inspire others by showcasing the strength found in authenticity, resilience, and service.
The participants, along with their families, will also take charge of the Liberation Day fundraising initiative by selling raffle tickets. The CNMI Liberation Queen, Royal Princess, First Runner-up, and Princesses will be determined by the total amount of net raffle tickets sold by the candidate, her family, and sponsors (if applicable). Awardees and the rest of the candidates will receive 10% of the total funds they raised.
To learn more about a candidate or for royal court sponsorship opportunities, reach out to the LDC Royal Court Subcommittee at cnmiliberationdayroyalcourt@gmail.com/.
