The search to find the next Miss Universe Australia is underway, with National finalists preparing to touch down in Melbourne later this month ahead of the national finals held at the Sofitel on Collins June 28.
We are chatting with Deni McDermott, from QLD who will be competing for the 2018 title of Miss Universe Australia.
So why don’t you tell our readers a little about yourself?
My name is Deni McDermott; I have been living in Brisbane for about ten years. I am 21 and currently in my last year of university study finance and accounting. I am hoping to pursue a career in international finance. At the moment, I am working as a model part-time, which I really love, I meet so many amazing people with such different careers, and I am given so much freedom and flexibility.
So you’ve just returned from the Miss Universe Finalists trip to the Amazing Allia Hotels in Bali… How was the experience?
Bali was such an incredible experience; I feel so lucky to be have gone with such a fantastic team of people. Everyone was just so kind, generous and warm and you do truly walk away with a bunch of lifelong friends. I think each of us girls experienced personal growth as well; we were mentored by some inspiring people, who really served as great role models for us. I have also never been to Bali, but Alila hotels definitely set the expectations high. The staff were so incredibly welcoming at each resort and went above and beyond to make sure we were okay. I cannot wait to go back!!!
We know there was an amazing program of things for you all, what was your highlight?
Definitely, the powerful impressions workshop which was run by Nat! It really gave me an insight into my personality, and what skills and values I hold, which I cannot only use for this competition but for my career and everyday life in future. It was great also seeing the other girls and their personality types and how each one of us can use our skills to present ourselves better and communicate with each other.
So now you’re home and having undergone the best prep we can think of you know the sun, surf and Bali …. it’s not long till the national finals in Melb… how are you feeling in the lead-up and what sort of preparation are you doing, before finals week commences?
I am so excited but also very nervous; I think Bali just increased everyone’s drive to succeed. I’m not changing too much as if I think too much into it, I freak myself out, and I would just prefer to be completely myself and honest at finals. I also generally try to eat quite healthy and exercise, however, I have stepped up the training sessions.
With so many of you all bringing an individual flair to the competition, what do you think will set you apart from the other contestants?
I definitely just think my relaxed and calm attitude. I am very down to earth, so don’t get too competitive with these things.
Speaking of being unique we all have different motivations, what is something that motivates you daily or you would say is your passion?
Definitely to just be happy with whatever I do. I have many different passions at the moment haha (finance, fashion and fitness), so I think only my desire to live a really happy life no matter what path my career takes me down.
What is something people might find interesting about yourself?
I have actually been at the university for five years but am only 21. It took me quite a while to find the degree for me haha.
Where is your favourite place in the world to wind down and relax?
My favourite place would be Hydeaway Bay, a small town outside of Airlie Beach; it is where my family and I travel each year as it is where my Grandparents live. There is barely any reception, and the beaches are so quiet and relaxing. It really forces you to switch off from the world and enjoy life.
The Miss Universe program has a long and proud history and focuses on helping women become the best versions of themselves, how do you think your experience so far will help move you forward in life?
I am just an ordinary girl who has experienced many negative and positive things throughout my life. I am still learning things every day about myself and the world, just like everyone else, and definitely, have so much more to experience as I am only 21. However, through my experiences, I have become so open-minded and empathetic with others, which I think is so important to succeed with anything you do, as if you do not try to understand others and where they are coming from you will be stuck in your own little bubble. I have also learnt how important it is to just do things for you sometimes and not to worry what others think. I used to analyse every little thing in my life, but I have let go of worrying about others’ opinions so much, and now am a completely different person. I wouldn’t have been doing this competition a few years ago if I had not changed a little.
What is the funniest thing that has happened to you recently?
Ahhh definitely driving around with a flat tyre for about four days without knowing, and somebody having to signal me down on the highway to tell me to pull over to get it changed. Haha, I am not to car savvy obviously (sorry dad).
Name five things you can’t live without?
– My family and friends – Music – Some form of maths (keeps me sane as I need some sort of analytics to my life haha) – Coffee – Oh and salted caramel gelati 🙂
How would your closest friend describe you?
Easy going, gentle, up for anything and clumsy!!!
Would you compete in Miss Universe Australia competition again?
I would say definitely!! At the start, I wouldn’t have understood why you would do it again, but after Bali and meeting all these fantastic people, you grow so much as a person and realise how unique and beautiful you are. I think there is always room for people to grow, so I would 100% do it again.
Deni is also helping raise money for Toybox International as part of her Miss Universe Journey, Please consider donating by clicking here
