A marquee event in Sacramento’s fall cultural calendar, the Miss California International 2026 and Best Business Awards Ceremony & Gala on Nov. 7 blends fashion, entrepreneurship and Slavic heritage into one celebratory evening.
The Center at Twenty Three Hundred will transform into a stage for recognition, artistic expression and community building. The gala honors successful outstanding achievements in business, leadership and community service through the Best Business Awards, while also celebrating the finalists of the Miss California International beauty pageant. Together, these programs elevate diverse voices, promote cross-cultural engagement and inspire the next generation of leaders.
Beyond the traditional pageant format, Miss California International attracts hundreds of attendees — from judges and entrepreneurs to performers and families — who come not only for the glamour, but for the values it represents.
“The brilliance of this event left me speechless — the perfect blend of beauty, talent and heartwarming community support,” Will Roberts, award-winning actor and two-time Guinness World Record holder for the most people inside a spinning lasso, said of last year’s event. “This was a world-class experience, and trust me, I’ll be there next year … and the one after that.”
This year’s program includes a red-carpet VIP reception, award presentations for business excellence and community impact, and a high-energy stage finale featuring artistic showcases from across California. The evening entertainment program includes live music by Velvet Summer Band, an exhibition by renowned Russian sculptor Andrey Sledkov, a magic show by Andy and Georgia Amyx, and a seven-course Slavic-style dinner during the program. But the heart of the evening remains the young women competing in the Miss California International program.
Empowerment through opportunity
As Event Producer Sergey Ivannikov noted, “The competition is free for all participants, removing the financial barrier that often prevents youth from engaging in leadership and performance programs. This accessibility is central to the gala’s mission of building future leaders, especially among those from immigrant and underserved communities.”
Unlike traditional pageants, there is no swimsuit round or emphasis on physical perfection. Instead, the program highlights personal expression, public speaking, teamwork and resilience — tools that empower participants far beyond the stage.
For the participants, this journey is an opportunity for personal growth — a chance to step into new roles, gain confidence and form lasting connections.
A broader mission
Proceeds from the event support the work of the Council for Cross Cultural Affairs (CCCA), a 501(c)3 nonprofit that offers year-round mentorship, training and creative opportunities to youth throughout California. Through nonprofit programs, festivals and performance showcases, CCCA creates safe, inclusive spaces for children, teens and adults to explore identity, develop leadership and discover their place in the community.
From speech coaching to choreography, participants gain tangible skills and a sense of belonging and pride in their voices. Many participants go on to mentor future cohorts, volunteer in their communities or launch initiatives of their own.
“It was an honor and a privilege to serve as the president judge at the Miss California International Grand Finale,” said Chanda De Martini, manager at Von Housen Automotive. “Thank you for creating such a beautiful night filled with community, culture and elegance — a space where we could celebrate our differences and connect over what unites us.”
A stage for every voice
The stage performances will blend artistry and empowerment, which has become a defining element of the gala; helping contestants feel confident and expressive on stage, regardless of prior dance experience.
Each contestant takes part in multiple stage routines, including individual runway walks and group dance numbers. These pieces are carefully designed by Silver Dance Studio to facilitate personal growth, creativity and teamwork. A dynamic and symbolic final group performance will celebrate unity, identity and transformation.
In past years, performances have incorporated elements from different cultures and dance styles, allowing each participant to contribute something unique to the stage.
Community, connection and celebration
Miss California International is a celebration of community resilience, female leadership and the shared belief that opportunity should never depend on background or wealth.
“It is a way to say thank you and show appreciation to people who have achieved success, especially from scratch,” said Alisa Yurchenko, president of CCCA. “It is also a space to exchange ideas, share creative visions and even spark new collaborations.”
What makes the event stand out is its ability to bring people together — across industries, cultures and generations. Among the judges this year is California State Treasurer Fiona Ma. Viktor Migalchan, a film director, show runner and a judge at the Emmy Awards and creative industry awards, has worked with the contestants to prepare for the interview portion of the beauty pageant and will be the jury panel president for Miss California International 2026.
“The evening was a true celebration of excellence, diversity and community spirit,” office of California State Senator District Director Daniel Washington said about Miss California International 2025. “It was an honor to witness so many inspiring leaders and businesses being recognized for their achievements.”
Miss California International 2026 takes place Friday, Nov. 7 at The Center at Twenty Three Hundred, 2300 Sierra Blvd. in Sacramento.
Editor’s note: Miss California International Grand Finale is organized by Council for Cross Cultural Affairs, 501(c)3 nonprofit, and produced by Russian American Media. RAM is a member of the Solving Sacramento journalism collaborative.
