It’s that exciting time of year again! We’re chatting with Jennifer Crown of New South Wales, one of the 28 remarkable and accomplished women from diverse backgrounds vying for the title of Miss Universe Australia 2024. The winner is set to be crowned in the Grand Ballroom at Crown Perth on the 5th of September.
So, Jennifer, why don’t you start by telling us a bit about yourself?
My name is Jennifer Crown. I am currently working as a sales representative for the leading Lexus dealership in Australia while I finish my marketing and media degree part-time.
I’ve also dabbled in the modelling industry and have done national campaign shoots for brands such as NOVO shoes and the NBA. Although I’ve taken a step back from modelling due to full-time work and study commitments, I hope Miss Universe will allow me to reignite this passion. In the meantime, I spend my time at the gym (I love long-distance running and boxing), or on the racetrack preparing for my semi-professional motorsport career.
What inspired you to take the leap and enter Miss Universe Australia?
One of my favourite quotes is: “Say your life is a movie…how would you live it to ensure it was as thrilling, impactful, and memorable a blockbuster hit it could be?”
I have truly lived by this and become the lead actor in what I would want to be my “story”, creating unforgettable experiences and life-altering chapters to ensure my life is as action-packed and noteworthy as possible. I want to have taken advantage of every opportunity, especially since I’m a sucker for learning and all things self-growth. I just knew Miss Universe would be that thing for me—the thing that would push me out of my comfort zone and change my life, no matter the outcome. I know I’ll walk away better for it.
As part of the program, you had the amazing opportunity to travel to Vietnam, courtesy of VietJet, and stay at the beautiful Hoiana Resort. How was that experience for you?
Hoiana was an absolute dream to stay at. The food was fantastic, the resort was a dream, the staff were so welcoming and helpful, the weather was to die for, and the company was the cherry on top, making it a core memory for me. What stood out most was the cooking class we participated in—it was a blast.
Overall, I never would have thought of Vietnam as a travel destination, but after experiencing it for a week, I couldn’t think of anything better. Everything was truly magnificent, and it was an absolute honour to have experienced it. I want to thank VietJet for the seamless flight and Hoiana for providing us such a polished and catered stay.
What would you say was the highlight of the trip?
Absolutely the food. I took advantage of the phenomenal breakfast buffet… twice a day. I’m still working it off! I almost ate myself to death but couldn’t stop. Everything was so fresh and tasty—I drool when I think about it.
Can you describe an experience in Vietnam that pushed you out of your comfort zone?
As part of our stay, we were fortunate enough to have a masterclass with NIDA (a prestigious drama and performance school). They taught us public speaking techniques and performance tips for when on stage. This was incredibly useful but also really forced us to step out of our comfort zone and deliver a fiercer, more confident version of ourselves. It was so valuable in preparing us for what’s to come. Miss Universe and the organisation meticulously thought through the itinerary to ensure there was not only fun but growth, which I can really appreciate.
Your next question comes from our current Miss Universe Australia, Moraya Wilson. Imagine you’re standing on stage with the title of Miss Universe Australia 2024. What advice would you give to your younger self?
Be comfortable with being uncomfortable and remember there is no such thing as failure. Only lessons and experiences. So, when you do try again (and you ALWAYS try again), you now know what not to do and what you might want to do instead.
With everyone bringing their own unique flair to the program, what would you say sets you apart from the other contestants?
What sets me apart is definitely my involvement in motorsports. I’m currently undergoing driver training with some reputable names so I can start racing competitively (I plan to do Bathurst 6 Hour next year). I love all things beauty but I’m also not afraid to get down and dirty—whether it’s getting competitive on a racetrack, flying a helicopter, or waking up at 4:45 in the morning five days a week to ensure I get my workout before going to work in sales, which can be a pretty high-pressure, cutthroat industry.
What’s something about you that people might find surprising?
I’ve travelled to over 14 cities and 10 countries.
If you could work on any dream project, with no limits on time or resources, what would it be?
I don’t know how I would even go about doing this logically, but if I could, a dream project would be to create an environment and support for orphaned children. I would aim to foster a loving and healthy upbringing that could drive the kids to accomplish great things. Learn to forgive, love, accept, and become greater than their parents, their circumstances, and lead by positive example to change their story into one with a powerful message.
We have a few quick questions to wrap up the interview:
If you could instantly master any skill, what would it be and why?
Negotiations, because it’s such a valuable skill in any industry.
What’s the most adventurous thing you’ve ever done?
Flying a helicopter.
Do you have a guilty pleasure that you enjoy?
I listen to these three movie albums on repeat: Mamma Mia, High School Musical, and Phantom of the Opera.
If you could have any superpower for a day, what would it be and how would you use it?
Talking to animals. I’d love to have a conversation with my naughty cats about what is and isn’t acceptable at 6 in the morning.
Help Jennifer and the Miss Universe Australia Finalists Make a Difference
Jennifer, along with the other Miss Universe Australia finalists, have collectively raised over $500,000 to support ToyBox and its official 2024 charities: Camp Quality and Ronald McDonald House. You can donate now using the link below.
