Gwen Kablonski

Gwen Kablonski is an intelligent, talented, and thoughtful Odyssey student who writes poetry. Aware that others may judge her appearance, she enters the Young Miss Odyssey contest simply to dress up, meet people, and share her work. Her poem about disliking her reflection and discovering that God knows her hidden pain moves the audience, even though she wins no title. Gwen remains content because she made friends and expressed something true. She later helps Tamika Washington appreciate her father by speaking honestly about her own dad, Harvey. Since her mother died, Harvey has rearranged his life to support her. Gwen's gratitude, confidence, and clear priorities encourage friends who have become too concerned with appearances.