Today we are catching up with Jaime Foo Jia Yi, one of the 7 talented and inspiring women from all walks of life who are hoping to be crowned Miss Universe Singapore 2023 at the iconic Amber Lounge during the Singapore Grand Prix Weekend on 16 Sept with special guest Lil John.
So, Jaime why don’t you tell us a little about yourself?
I’m 22 years old, a true blue Singaporean born and bred! I’m currently a university student pursuing my degree in communications while doing freelance modelling on the side.
We all have motivations, mine usually around good coffee, but what was your key motivation for entering Miss Universe Singapore?
Honestly, as I’m on the petite side, I never imagined myself participating in a pageant. My best friend who used to be a pageant queen encouraged me and here I am! I’m thrilled by the excitement of trying something new and I wanted to challenge myself to perform under the spotlight.
As part of the program, you recently went on the National Finalist Trip to Vietnam at Furama Resort Denang, with the Australian contestants. What was the experience like?
Shortly after being announced as one of the finalists, the next thing I knew we were already on a plane to Vietnam! A whirlwind of events but I am so glad I was part of this experience that I would not trade for anything else.
The Australian finalists had such pure determination and sunshine energy that inspired me so much! Meeting all these amazing girls motivates me to constantly be a better version of myself. This trip definitely pushed me to unlock my self-confidence too.
What would you say was the highlight of your trip?
Meeting all the finalists from both Singapore and Australia for sure! Being in a room filled with talented and intelligent women is so inspiring and empowering. I’m so grateful for all the friendships forged as well as being part of this community. Other than that, having the chance to visit the VAVA charity was both educational and meaningful.
With everyone bringing their own unique and individual flair to the program, what is something that sets you apart from the other finalists?
Standing at 163 cm, I’m not conventional pageant height. I’m sure petite girls like me can relate to feeling small! Unrealistic beauty standards set by society can make women compare and feel insecure and I hope to advocate diversity and spread that ‘beauty has no boundaries’.
Singapore is a multicultural society with people from many different backgrounds and walks of life. As Miss Universe Singapore, how would you use your platform to bring people together?
I strongly believe in authenticity, pure intention and staying true to yourself. I would use my platform as Miss Universe Singapore to inspire women from Singapore and all over the world, regardless of age or race, to follow their dreams and do what makes you happy. As well as giving back to our community in ways that we can.
Tell us something you’re passionate about and why?
My passion lies in animal welfare. For as long as I can remember, I always had a pet present in my life. I like to say that my dog is my best friend, and the pure joy she brings is the reason I love animals as much as I do. Though I’m just one person, I hope to create a world where animals are free from cruelty and suffering.
To finish up the interview we have a few quick questions
If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?
After travelling and visiting other countries, I would always still miss my home country Singapore. With my family and friends here, I honestly can’t see myself living anywhere else.
What would your perfect weekend look like?
My perfect weekend would be a combination of self-care and spending time with my family and my dogs!
What makes you laugh out loud?
Though my friends say that I laugh at anything, a funny TikTok can make me laugh for a whole week.
