Today we’re chatting with Emily Soccol from Victoria, one of 28 remarkable women vying for the Miss Universe Australia 2026 crown, to be decided on August 26 at Palladium, Crown Melbourne. In a first for the pageant, this year’s national final will be broadcast live nationally on the Seven Network.
So Emily, why don’t you start by telling us a bit about yourself?
I’m 23 years old, originally from Brisbane, Queensland. I’m a lawyer by profession and I’ve also had the opportunity to live in the United Kingdom, which broadened my perspective of the world and challenged me in ways I never expected. Before pursuing law, I was a ballet dancer of 15 years and had the privilege of performing at the Commonwealth Games. My career in ballet taught me so much about resilience, dedication and pushing beyond my comfort zone. I love staying active, with boxing being one of my favourite forms of exercise and I’m always up for discovering a new coffee spot. One of the most incredible experiences I’ve had was hiking through the Himalayas in Nepal. I’m someone who loves learning, exploring new places and connecting with people from all walks of life.
What inspired you to take the leap and enter Miss Universe Australia?
I was inspired to enter Miss Universe Australia because I wanted to challenge myself and use this platform to inspire young women to believe that they are not defined by the expectations or opinions of others. If my journey can encourage even one person to believe in themselves and take a step toward their dreams, then it will be incredibly meaningful.
As part of the program, you had the amazing opportunity to travel to Vietnam and stay at the beautiful Mövenpick Resort Cam Ranh. How was that experience for you?
Vietnam was an experience I’ll always cherish. It was such a unique opportunity to step outside my comfort zone, experience a beautiful new culture and share the journey with every other finalist. I left feeling grateful, inspired and excited for the experiences still to come.
What’s one moment from the trip you don’t think you’ll ever forget?
Rather than one specific moment, I think what I’ll remember most is how much I learnt about myself throughout the trip. Being in a new country, surrounded by new people, reminded me to embrace the unknown, be present, and appreciate the moments that make the journey meaningful. The memories are special but the lessons are what I’ll take with me.
As part of the trip, you also took part in your official swimwear shoot with Unnecessary. What was the experience like?
Shooting in Vietnam was an experience I’ll always remember. Being in a new environment and working with such a talented, supportive team made the experience incredibly special. I’m so thankful to everyone behind the scenes who created such a welcoming atmosphere and helped make my swimshoot both enjoyable and comfortable.
Your next question comes from our current Miss Universe Australia, Lexie Brant. What is one belief or perspective that you’ve changed your mind about recently, and what caused that change?
I previously believed that success was measured solely by milestones. Over time, I’ve realised that the most valuable parts of success are often intangible, such as the lessons you learn, the people you inspire and the way you handle challenges. Success is rarely linear and it’s often the unexpected, hardest moments that shape you the most.
With everyone bringing their own unique flair to the program, what would you say sets you apart from the other finalists?
I believe what sets me apart is the way I approach people, with empathy and humility. I believe the most meaningful connections come from being willing to listen, learn and genuinely understand others. Empathy allows me to connect with people on a deeper level, while humility reminds me that every person and experience has something to teach me. I hope to achieve great things while always staying grounded in the values and experiences that have shaped who I am.
What’s one skill, trip, or activity, not Miss Universe related, that you want to tick off your list before the end of 2026?
I’ve always wanted to learn Italian. I’m half Italian and my surname, Soccol, comes from a small village in Northern Italy. While visiting Soccol may not be on the cards for 2026, learning the language is something I’d love to begin with!
If you could work on any dream project, with no limits on time or resources, what would it be?
After working on a community project in Nepal where I helped install an in-ground water tank at a primary school, I saw firsthand the gratitude of the local community for access to clean water. I’d love to continue being involved in initiatives that make essential resources more accessible, whether that’s in Nepal or in communities around the world where support is needed.
If 2026 had a theme song, what would it be?
It would have to be one of my favourite songs, ‘Smooth Operator’ by Sade. It’s an effortlessly unique and timeless song that I’ll never skip when it plays in the car. I love that it carries such a quiet confidence. I want to approach new experiences with a similar mindset, trusting myself and embracing every opportunity that comes my way.
What’s the most “you” thing currently sitting in your camera roll?
Far too many photos of the latte art on my morning coffees. My local barista somehow manages to create anything from teddy bears to flowers, and I can never resist taking a photo before I drink it.
Best piece of advice you’ve ever ignored?
The best piece of advice I’ve ever ignored is probably, “take the risk or you’ll regret the what ifs more”. Looking back, some of the most defining moments in my life have come from taking chances before I felt completely ready. Moving to the United Kingdom, transitioning from ballet into law, and entering Miss Universe Australia all shaped who I am today. I’ve discovered that the unknown can be intimidating but it’s often where the most growth and rewarding experiences happen.
What’s a completely useless or funny talent you have that you’re weirdly proud of?
I’m actually pretty ambidextrous. I wouldn’t say it comes up very often but it’s very handy when I need to paint my own nails!
Where to Watch, Emily on the Miss Universe Australia National Final
The Miss Universe Australia National Final is being broadcast live on Seven Network on August 26, 2026. The live red-carpet coverage will begin at 7:00pm AEST, followed by the National Final at 7:30pm AEST on 7plus. The program then airs on Channel Seven following The Front Bar.
