The 2026 Rose Court was officially introduced during a recent event at the Pasadena Hilton, featuring Rose Queen Serena Guo and her six princesses: Olivia Hargrove, Keiko Rakin, Livia dePaula, Riya Gupta, Naira Wadley, and Sophia Ren. This year’s court represents a diverse group of young women who will participate in numerous community events leading up to the iconic Rose Parade on January 1, 2026.
The Rose Court, selected each fall, consists of seven women aged 17 to 21 who demonstrate academic excellence and community involvement. Each member must maintain at least a 2.0 GPA and be a full-time student from specific schools within the Pasadena Area Community College District and surrounding areas. This year marks a special milestone, as it includes college students for the first time in over a decade, highlighting the growing inclusivity of the program.
Community Engagement and Leadership
The members of the 2026 Rose Court have already begun their community service initiatives. At the recent Alhambra Chamber of Commerce lunch event, they distributed food and engaged with attendees to foster connections within the community. Naira Wadley, who faced personal challenges earlier this year due to the devastating Eaton fire, emphasized the importance of resilience and community support during her speeches.
Each member brings unique experiences and aspirations. For instance, Riya Gupta, a freshman at Caltech studying mechanical engineering, expressed her desire to break stereotypes about women in science. She noted her commitment to ensuring scientific research is accessible to everyone. Meanwhile, Livia dePaula, a senior at Temple City High School, is passionate about mentoring non-native English speakers, fostering inclusivity among her peers.
The Rose Court also aims to represent a broader spectrum of backgrounds and experiences. This year features the first ever Caltech student on the court, alongside participants from various high schools, including the first current Alhambra student, Keiko Rakin. This diversity underscores the Tournament of Roses’ commitment to reflecting the community’s rich tapestry.
Individual Achievements and Aspirations
Each member of the court is not only dedicated to their studies but also to making a significant impact in their communities. Serena Guo, the newly crowned Rose Queen, is an advocate for justice and public policy. She has been active in local organizations and hopes to pursue a career in law. Her leadership roles include serving as a student tutor and working with the Foothill Unity Center, which supports individuals experiencing homelessness.
Olivia Hargrove, who is studying aerospace engineering at Pasadena City College, aims to inspire others in her field. As the first PCC student on the Rose Court in 11 years, she represents a new generation of women in STEM disciplines.
Similarly, Sophia Ren combines her passion for music with advocacy, leading initiatives to support foster children through her nonprofit organization, Youth4ward. Her goal is to integrate music education with community outreach, showcasing the potential for arts to drive social change.
The 2026 Rose Court embodies the spirit of the Tournament of Roses, serving as role models for their peers while passionately engaging with their communities. As they prepare for the upcoming Rose Parade, their dedication to public service and leadership continues to shine, promising a vibrant representation of their respective regions and causes.
