Meet Miss V Van-Cartier | Showgirl/ Entertainer, & Model

We had the good fortune of connecting with Miss V Van-Cartier and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Miss V, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
For me, pursuing a career in the artistic/ creative fields, was more than just a mere choice. Ever since I can remember, I’ve been interested in and had talent for the arts and have always had an extremely creative mind. And so growing up and making the choice to pursue a career in these industries, was choosing myself. Choosing to pursue a life of freedom and happiness knowing that I’m not just doing what I love for a living and being happy doing so; But knowing that through sharing my art and creativities, I’m touching/ making a difference in the lives of many and inspiring others to do the same.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am a showgirl/ drag entertainer, yes. But it is through my drag that I want to break into other facets of the art and creative industries. I pride myself in being diverse in my skills and talents and being able to apply those skills and talents to a variety of different outlets.

I got to where I am today, professionally, by working hard, persevering, and staying humble and true to me. I am after all, my own biggest competition. It wasn’t & isn’t easy, but doing what you love and loving what you do, makes it all worth it. I am extremely proud of the accomplishments and titles I have achieved including becoming the current reigning Miss Metropolitan Continental ‘23 and Miss Rumors ‘23/‘23

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Pittsburgh is chock full of delicious food spots, fun places to grab drinks, and tons of events for all types of interests and hobbies. Here are a few of my personal favorites:

Food & Drink
• Noodlehead
• Gordos Tacos & Tequila
• Frances and Franks Bar & Grill
• Fatheads
• Ruggers Pub
• Cinderlands Warehouse
• Coop De Ville
• Totopo

Going out
• Brewers Bar
• 5801 Video Lounge & Cafe
• Blue Moon
• P Town Bar
• McFaddens
• Mario’s (Southside, Shadyside, & Oakland)
• Pins Mechanical
• Enclave

Bowling at Arsenal Lanes (Lawrenceville)

Dependable Drive In (Moon Twnshp)

Visiting Randyland & the Mattress Factory

Walking through/ around Schenley Park

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My story/ journey is a long one. One with many highs and many lows. And it’s one that couldn’t have been done without the love, support, and guidance of many (they say it takes a village, and they are absolutely correct).

First and foremost, I have my Mom to thank. Someone who is far from perfect, but someone who has taught me to love unconditionally as well as to preserve and shows me every day what it is to be resilient.

I have my slew of chosen family and drag family whom support me in every venture and have been there every step of the way. Without them, I can confidently say that I wouldn’t be where I am today. It’s their unconditional and unwavering love and support that pushes my drive to do more and do better, competing only with myself.

I also have the non profit organization, O’Noir, that I am ever grateful to be the community ambassador for that continues to remind me that we are not in this alone/ the importance of helping others, that even the smallest amount makes a difference, and that you truly can be the change you wish to see in this world.

Instagram: https://instagram.com/missv_pgh?igshid=MWlhYnRseG1la3J0bw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dylan.strayer?mibextid=LQQJ4d

Image Credits
Travis Honnick Photography