You will compete at Miss Australia Continents, how will you prepare for the contest?
Yes that’s correct! Well, in the lead up to the Miss Australia Continents national finals I will be fundraising, attending charity and community events, eating well and trying to stay fit and healthy. These are all things I do regardless of being in a pageant though. I think it’s important to always live well, stay active and serve the community, it feels good to give back.
Why did you choose the 'Continents' system instead of the Miss Universe or the Miss World system?
I entered the Continents system as it seemed like the perfect fit for me. I research heavily into any pageant system before I enter to ensure it fits my values and beliefs. The Continents system motto is ‘be your own kind of beautiful’ which is something I strongly stand by with everything I do in life because after all we are all unique, we all come from different backgrounds and we all have a story. I love that the Continents system accepts girls and woman of all ages, shape and size and gives every one of us equal opportunity to shine.
What do you expect to gain by competing in pageantry?
For me personally it’s about becoming a better me, we are our own competition and our own worst critic. I have meet so many inspiring girls and woman through pageantry, many I now have as good friends. I think it’s important to walk away from every pageant proud of who you are, who you are becoming and how much you have achieved, winner or not.
Many misses have said that their dream since a child was to participate in a pageant as prestigious as Miss World (or Miss Universe). It it your case ? And if so, why ?
I actually don’t remember if it was my dream or not. I do remember admiring previous beauty queens though. My favourite beauty queen would probably have been Jennifer Hawkins, our Miss Universe 2004, I followed her journey growing up. She is such a wonderful role model and successful business woman, very admirable!
Did you face any moment of disappointment with yourself during the pageant journey, and how did you overcome it?
Absolutely! There can only be 1 winner but I am a huge believer that everything happens for a reason. I always reflect on my journey, how far I have come and everything I achieved during the lead up to any pageant. I also remind myself why I entered as I think every pageant I have done has had a reason behind it. I have always been very ambitious in both my personal and professional endeavours so I am always working towards my next goal.
We’ve all seen the stereotypical portrayals of pageant contestants, a la Miss Congeniality, spreading peace, love and beauty throughout the world. How do you think you'll make a difference?
I feel that I can make a difference because I am relatable. I have experienced many things throughout life so far and feel that by sharing my experiences throughout my journey will help encourage others to step out of their comfort zone and pursue their dreams. As a role model we need to be a passionate, dedicated, ambitious and caring individual, which are all qualities I hold close to my heart.
What would you advise any young girl out there who has a dream of being a queen one day?
I would encourage her and tell her that every girl has the potential to be a queen, all it takes is to believe in yourself. We should never give up on our goals and dreams no matter how big or small.
Thanks to the beautiful Gemma for the interview. Pageants News wishes you all the very best for Miss Australia Continents pageant.
