Tell me something about yourself and your work. What do you actually do, and have done in the past?
Growing up I wanted to make a difference and pursue a career in which I could work with children and help them grow into the best versions of themselves, that is what lead me to studying a degree in Primary School Education! I am in my third year of studying a Bachelor of Primary School Education at Griffith University while working part time as a model and cake decorator, decorating cakes for birthdays and special events.
You won the title of Miss Global Australia. What does it entail? How has your life changed since you were crowned?
Winning Miss Global Australia has been the most life changing and rewarding experience so far and has opened up so many incredible doors to allow me to make a difference and to be a role model. In November I am honored to be traveling to Cambodia to compete and represent my country on the International Miss Global stage.
What qualities a woman should have to represent a whole nation?
I believe self confidence is such a beautiful quality for any woman to have, especially one who has the opportunity to be a role model. Self confidence to me is being comfortable and confident in your own skin and when you have confidence in yourself it is radiated from within. I also believe that it is important to be relatable to people in all different walks of life as representing such a large group of people means communicating with a broad spectrum of communities.
Did you face any moment of disappointment with yourself during the pageant journey, and how did you overcome it?
Over the years of pageantry, I have faced disappointments, however I am a huge believer in everything happens for a reason and it is important to learn from every experience, good and bad. I am a very ambitious person so although sometimes things might not go to plan 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?
There is such a stereotype surrounding Beauty Pageants that the main focus is on beauty itself, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. I have met some incredible, knowledgeable and intelligent women through the pageant world and have made friendships that will last a life time. I would love to be able to break that stereotypical image and show that pageantry is not just about beauty but using beauty to make a difference in the world. I love getting involved with the community and adding a personal touch to the title, showing that although I am a beauty queen I am also a real person who cares and wants to use her title and platform to make a difference.
Who is your favourite beauty queen and why?
I have two Beauty Queens that I consider to be amazing role models and who have inspired me over the years. Jennifer Hawkins (Miss Universe 2004) and Angela Bonilla (Miss Global 2016), both are incredible women who are making a difference in the world. Jennifer is a strong business woman who has a beautiful heart and Angela is an incredible role model who is kind and not only beautiful on the outside but also on the inside, she does a lot of work with charities and helping others and is someone who is an inspiration.
Thanks to the beautiful Sophia for the interview. Pageants News wishes you all the very best for Miss Global pageant.