Meet Miss Bonita: Alicia Ontiveros, Embracing Courage and Community
Article shared from the Towne Local Bonita
Alicia Ontiveros, the newly crowned Miss Bonita, is someone who truly embraces stepping out of her comfort zone. For example, when Alicia first decided to apply for the Miss Bonita Pageant, she had never competed in a pageant before, but she took the leap, eager to grow and make a difference. She doesn’t just wear a crown; she wears her love for her community on her sleeve. Whether organizing charity events, volunteering at local shelters, or leading community clean-up initiatives, Alicia is always finding ways to make a positive impact. At 26, Alicia blends her natural beauty with a genuine personality, a friendly smile, and an inspiring passion for trying new things. She shows us all the value of embracing challenges, whether on a softball field or in a community setting. Let’s get to know the heart behind the crown.
Growing Up Bonita: A Life Rooted in Tradition
Alicia is Bonita through and through. Raised in this close-knit community, she attended Allen Elementary, Bonita Middle School, and Bonita Vista High School. For Alicia, Bonita is more than a place—it’s a tradition. Growing up with a yard big enough for animals, her family cultivated a little slice of ranch life, complete with horses, chickens, sheep, goats, and a pig. Caring for these animals taught Alicia responsibility, patience, and a deep appreciation for nature—values that continue to shape her commitment to community and service today. This connection to nature has always been a meaningful part of Alicia’s upbringing.
Alicia also has a deep appreciation for her cultural and spiritual roots. Her grandparents started a Latino worship group in the 1970s, and today, Alicia continues their legacy by volunteering at the same church. Faith plays a significant role in her life, and she’s determined to keep her community’s culture alive and thriving for the next generation. Alicia regularly leads youth group activities and helps organize community events at her church, continuing the legacy her grandparents started.
From Softball Fields to the Big Leagues
If you’re ever looking for Alicia Ontiveros in her youth, you’d have found her on the softball field. Softball wasn’t just a hobby—it was her passion. Alicia dedicated herself to playing at Bonita Valley as a child and then as a utility player for Bonita Vista High School. She even played second base while in college in Michigan and still finds time to play in a local league today.
This love for the game didn’t stop at college. After returning to Bonita with a degree in Biology, Alicia took a swing at something new. She applied to be a ball girl for the San Diego Padres in 2021. Though she wasn’t selected, it sparked a desire to work in Major League Baseball. This experience taught her resilience and reinforced her belief in pursuing her passions despite setbacks. It made her more determined to find her place in her favorite sport. The following year, she applied for a ticketing agent role with the Padres—and not only got the job, but also landed a position as a ticketing supervisor. Alicia has held that role for two years now, living her dream of working in the sport she loves.
The Courage to Compete: Becoming Miss Bonita
Alicia wasn’t content with just her dream job and community activities. Earlier this year, she decided to enter the Miss Bonita Pageant—despite never competing in a pageant before. Alicia wanted to use this platform to advocate for mental health awareness and to inspire others by showing that growth happens when you challenge yourself. It was another chance to push herself beyond her comfort zone and connect with her community. With a spirit of “taking opportunities as they come,” Alicia went through the application process, met with the judges, and before long, she was named the new Miss Bonita. Her journey is a testament to courage and the willingness to grow.
A Heart for Mental Health and Community
Beneath the crown, Alicia’s heart beats for her community—particularly for those struggling with mental health. During her time in college, she experienced anxiety and depression, especially during the isolation of COVID-19. Alicia found solace in staying active, maintaining her connection with friends through virtual calls, and focusing on her faith, which helped her overcome these challenges. She knows firsthand how challenging it can be for young people to talk about mental health struggles, let alone seek help. This year, as Miss Bonita, Alicia Ontiveros is committed to raising awareness about mental health. She believes even simple gestures—like asking someone how they’re doing—can make a big difference. As the holidays approach, she wants to be a beacon of support and connection, hoping to brighten someone’s day with her warm and caring presence.
Join Alicia Ontiveros on Her Journey
Alicia Ontiveros is more than Miss Bonita; she symbolizes community, courage, and compassion. Whether encouraging mental health awareness, sharing her love for Bonita, or engaging with others at local events, Alicia is ready to make her mark. If you want to get involved, keep an eye out for Alicia at community gatherings—she’s always happy to meet new faces, share stories, and snap a picture. You can also follow her journey on Instagram for the latest updates and behind-the-scenes moments!
If you’re interested in learning more about the Miss Bonita Pageant or getting involved in community initiatives, stay tuned for updates here on our community website!
We also did a story on Miss Chula Vista Isabel Caballero. Thank you to both of these ladies for allowing us to highlight them.
