Today we’re chatting with Briana Demaio from Western Australia, one of 30 remarkable women vying for the Miss Universe Australia 2025 crown, to be decided on August 15 at Crown Perth’s Grand Ballroom.
So, why don’t you start by telling us a bit about yourself?
I currently work in marketing as a partnerships executive for one of Australia’s largest media companies. Although I am proud to call Western Australia home, my roots are strongly Italian. Spending quality time with my loved ones, which of course always involves delicious food, has been a big part of my upbringing and is something I truly value.
What inspired you to take the leap and enter Miss Universe Australia?
I would love to turn my childhood dream of becoming a television presenter into a reality. I believe the Miss Universe Australia program provides the perfect platform to help me take that next step in my career. Through this experience I hope to grow in confidence, enhance my public speaking and presenting skills, and form long-lasting connections.
Another reason I joined the program was to gain a platform to advocate for breast cancer awareness, a cause that is deeply personal to me and my family. Earlier this year, I was diagnosed with the BRCA2 gene. This experience reinforced my belief in the importance of not only raising awareness about breast cancer but also highlighting the impact of genetic testing and early detection.
As part of the program, you had the amazing opportunity to travel to Vietnam, and stay at the beautiful Hoiana Resort. How was that experience for you?
This was an unforgettable trip, filled with so many amazing memories and newly formed friendships. This was my second time in Vietnam, and again it did not disappoint. The food, the culture, and of course the warm weather made my week away feel like a dream. Not to mention, the luxury and unlimited amenities Hoiana Resort provides. A must-add to the travel list!
What would you say was the highlight of the trip?
There were so many amazing highlights, but if I had to pick just one it would be the walking workshops with Thelma. The energy was always so positive and seeing the confidence and encouragement amongst the group was honestly so beautiful. You could genuinely feel the love and support in the room. It was such a fun and empowering experience that I will never forget!
As part of the trip, you also took part in your official swimwear shoot with Unnecessary the Label. How was that experience for you?
I had so much fun during my swim shoot! This was definitely another highlight for me. My theme was submerged and as it says in the name, I was literally submerged in the water. I was embracing the full wet-hair look and had on the most flattering red two-piece from Unnecessary swim. The location, the creative team, and everyone involved made my whole experience feel truly special and unforgettable.
Your next question comes from our current Miss Universe Australia, Zoe Creed. If your younger self could see you today, not just on this stage but as a person, what do you think she’d be most proud of, and why?
I love this question! Growing up I have always been taught to follow my dreams, and seeing where I am today, both in my career and personal life, is a true representation of that. This is my second time participating in the Miss Universe Australia program, and I know my younger self would be so proud that I gave it another go. She would be excited to see me step outside my comfort zone, not because I have to, but because I believe in the dreams I am chasing.
With everyone bringing their own unique flair to the program, what would you say sets you apart from the other contestants?
One of the greatest parts of the program is the wide variety of personalities and uniqueness amongst the group. Although we all have our own ambitions and paths, we are all on this journey together and that is truly beautiful. I think what sets me apart is my maturity for my age. I’m 23, which often surprises people. Growing up in an Italian family, I was raised with strong values of kindness and authenticity, values in which I live by day to day. My experience working in media has also taught me how to stay calm under pressure and communicate correctly in fast-paced environments.
What’s something about you that people might find surprising or interesting?
Something people might not know about me is that I grew up dancing between the ages of three and sixteen. Tap dancing was always my favourite, however I also took classes in jazz, ballet, contemporary, hip-hop, and acrobatics. My hidden talent and go-to trick was a no-handed cartwheel, but please don’t ask me to do one now, unless you would like to witness me break my first ever bone!
If you could work on any dream project, with no limits on time or resources, what would it be?
I have always loved shopping and fashion so owning my own clothing boutique or fashion label would be a dream. To me, there is something so uplifting when you purchase a new piece of clothing or put on a nice outfit. When I know my outfit is good, so is my mood! I would love to provide that feeling of confidence and happiness to the people around me.
Since you mentioned no limits, another project I would love to work towards is providing self-development classes for young girls. I would teach simple skills such as skincare, makeup basics, and personal style, while also encouraging them to embrace their natural beauty with confidence.
We have a few quick questions to wrap up the interview:
What’s a song that never fails to lift your mood?
I am a massive Belieber, so anything old school JB does it for me!
What does confidence mean to you?
To me, confidence means that I have full trust within myself. Even in situations that I don’t feel certain, I know my instincts will always guide me in the right direction.
If you had to swap lives with someone for a day, who would it be and why?
I have always admired Audrey Hepburn. Her portrait is actually above my bed! She was a beautiful woman both on the inside and out, and I think it would be amazing to experience life in the 20th century through her eyes.
What’s one thing you always have in your handbag (besides your phone)?
Lip balm and an eyebrow brush always!
Window or aisle seat on a flight?
Easy access to the bathroom is a must, so I am going to have to say aisle seat!
Help Briana and the Miss Universe Australia Finalists Make a Difference.
Briana, along with the other Miss Universe Australia Finalists, have collectively raised over $500,000 to support ToyBox and its official 2025 charities Camp Quality, Ocean Heroes and Ronald McDonald House. You can donate now using the link below.
