Well here in Queensland we’ve just wrapped up another sensational Summertime the weather is sparkling, and the search for the next Miss Universe Australia is heading our way with finalists being announced across the country now.
We thought we would kick off our home state interviews with Chantelle Romeo.
Congratulations on making it through to the state finals, why don’t you tell us about yourself?
Hello, My name is Chantelle, I am 25 years old and was born and raised in North Brisbane. I work for Virgin Australia Airlines where I am currently working in the Operations Team in Head Office with a past three years experience Flight Attending. During this time I have been very fortunate to have met so many incredible people and visited many places in Australia which have definitely contributed to shaping the person I am today. Queensland still happens to be my favourite for the beaches, sunshine and the good-naturedness of Queenslanders. In my spare time, I enjoy being outdoors, travelling to new places, and catching up with friends. Being half Italian, I am passionate about cultural diversity and am grateful to live in a country which encourages this.
We all have motivations, Mine usually revolves around coffee ? but what was your key motivation for entering the Miss Universe Australia competition?
My motivation for participating in the Miss Universe Australia program last year was to put myself out of my comfort zone to seek new and exciting challenges to enable self-development and growth. This year I want to build upon this, I want to show myself and others not to give up if you do not always reach your ultimate goal but rather to try again. The Miss Universe Australia pageant encourages change and focuses on the empowerment of woman by providing a platform under which confident and intelligent young women of today can make positive changes within the community and be seen as positive role models. Minespec Parts is helping to make this possible by providing the winner with a $10000 grant which I see as a massive motive in itself to help kickstart making a positive impact and change.
What part of the Miss Universe Australia program are you most looking forward to?
I am honestly looking forward to every part of the program as there is so much to be gained from the experience. I am looking forward to meeting all the other girls involved, working with our sponsors, being involved in the workshops and creating new support networks. Also having the ability to create awareness for charities such as children’s charity Toybox International and other social issues which are close to my heart.
We are all unique so what would you say is something that makes you stand out from the other contestants?
My desire to always do my very best in any situation and showcase resilience definitely defines me as a person and I believe makes me stand out. I am also a very genuine person who is always trying to be a positive influence not only on other people but also within myself.
With the state finals, just a few days away, has your routine changed at all?
The Miss Universe Program is an incredible motivator. I do genuinely aim to live quite a balanced lifestyle in regards to routine -fitness/friends & family /work and leisure. I think it’s so important sustaining a good balance. I attend the gym on a regular basis. My ultimate favourite hobby has always been running. I love how it clears the mind and improves the quality of your mental life. I have also been incorporating the products/workshops we have been so luckily provided by our sponsors such as F45 Bulimba sessions which really push us to our limits, to say the least.
What is something that you hope to bring out of the Miss Universe Australia pageant?
I hope to bring out of the program new friendships, networks and use the tools provided to be seen as a positive role model for other women and bring about change where I can positively foster this. I would ultimately love to use the platform to remind us how important it is to be kind to ourselves and one another and draw attention to issues worldwide which truly resonate with me such as mental health issues. It would mean being able to reach out, raise awareness and support.
What is the funniest thing that has happened to you recently?
That’s a tricky one…would have to be my massive belly flop moment off a boat overseas. Safe to say I used the stairs for the rest of the trip 🙂
How would your closest friend describe you?
Kind-hearted, unjudgmental, motivated, approachable, down to earth and genuine. I am so lucky to have formed so many amazing friendships as this is something that I highly value and will have with me for life.
Name five things you can’t live without?
*Family & Friends *The Beach *Adventure (travel) *Laughter *Hot chocolate
What is your favourite life motto…
‘You are stronger than you think you are’ This is one of my favourite mottos and is timeless. This appeals to me as every single person has a story and it’s the different life experiences and challenges encountered which shape who we are and can make us stronger for it; as it is within these moments we grow and showcase qualities we didn’t even know we were capable of.
Chantelle is also raising money for ToyBox International please consider making a donation at EveryDayHero