Today we are catching up with Brooklyn Metropolis of Western Australia, one of the 24 talented and inspiring women from all walks of life who are hoping to be crowned Miss Universe Australia 2023 at The Sofitel Melbourne on Collins this Friday.
So, Brooklyn why don’t you tell us a little about yourself?
I was born and raised in Perth, Western Australia, and graduated from university with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. I am currently employed at Perth Children’s Hospital as a registered nurse working in the Adolescent Eating Disorder ward. I am a trained dancer and natural performer with 15 years of experience, and more recently, I was cast in the stage production of ‘Fame the Musical’. I am currently represented by Chadwick Models.
We all have motivations, mine usually around good coffee, but what was your key motivation for entering Miss Universe Australia?
My ultimate motivation for entering the Miss Universe Australia program was to develop my personal and professional growth. I’ve always wanted to enter, however I never felt I was ready until this year. I know that with continued growth, I have the capacity to give more as I am learning so much through this wonderful opportunity. The Miss Universe Australia program is about giving to yourself, giving to others, giving time, giving to charities and the causes I believe in. I know this level of contribution wouldn’t be possible if I wasn’t on a constant trajectory of growth.
As part of the program, you recently went on the National Finalist Trip to Vietnam at Furama Resort Da Nang, what was the experience like?
My recent trip to Vietnam was a once in a lifetime opportunity thanks to the Pink Tank Events team. We stayed at the beautiful Furama Resort in Da Nang and were absolutely spoilt! Our week consisted of water sports, cocktail events, a presenting workshop with NIDA, walking workshops and a special visit to the Da Nang Association for victims of Agent Orange – to name a few. Spending time with the Australian & Singaporean finalists further solidified my beliefs in women empowerment and what it is about – breaking barriers, fostering equality and celebrating achievements. I am thrilled to have met girls from all over Australia/Singapore who I can now call my lifelong friends.
What would you say was the highlight of your trip?
There were many highlights from our incredible Vietnam trip, however the few that immediately come to mind are the friendships I made throughout the week, my official swim shoot and our visit to the Da Nang Association for Victims of Agent Orange. I believe that as a group, we all celebrated our strengths, passions and causes and I loved getting to know the other women on a personal level. My ‘Spotlight’ official swim shoot was so much fun! I can’t say I’ve ever done a photo shoot on the beach in complete darkness before! Visiting the Association for Victims of Agent Orange was extremely moving and increased my awareness of the devastating effects Agent Orange has had on many generations to this day. It was an honour to meet and share moments with these beautiful children impacted by this toxic chemical and it was truly an unforgettable experience.
With everyone bringing their own unique and individual flair to the program, what is something that sets you apart from the other finalists?
I believe what sets me apart is that I am participating with a purpose and passion in making a difference in youth mental health. I am on a lifelong journey of learning – learning how to work alongside different people, relating to different people and connecting with different people. This programme has taught me how to be confident when placed in diverse situations and I will always embody the values I believe in – being genuine, transparent and honest. My passion for learning propels me to seek solutions in youth mental health. For me, it is really about purpose, passion and learning.
If you could ask our current Miss Universe Australia, Monique Riley, one question, what would it be and why?
If I had the opportunity to ask Monique one question it would be: “Is there anything you would do differently during your reign as Miss Universe Australia?” I would ask this specific question as I want to be able to maximise the opportunities the title has to offer. Monique will soon be passing the baton on to the next MUA, and if I was to go on and win – I would want to take this baton and run with it, making the most of every opportunity along the way.
Tell us something you’re passionate about and why?
I am at the coalface of adolescent mental health in Western Australia. My passion grows as I work closely with young individuals, aiming to strengthen their resilience. Working within the mental health space has exposed me to a range of experiences, emotions, and conditions fostering empathy and understanding. I believe nursing is a calling, driven by a deep passion for caring. It’s a profession that requires constant learning and adaptability. The satisfaction of making a difference in someone’s life is immeasurable. Working in this field of course comes with its challenges, however my passion fuels the desire to provide the best care possible and helping others leaves me feeling extremely rewarded.
To finish up the interview we have a few quick questions
If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?
I have been fortunate enough to travel to many locations globally which are all beautiful and unique in their own way, however Australia’s charm is unparalleled and there is no place like home!
What’s your ideal way to spend a day off?
An ideal day off for me consists of some down time to re-set with a movie or a good book.
What makes you laugh out loud?
Spending time with my besties and a good old fashioned board game!
