Latisha Batkins - Miss Universe Queensland Finalist

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 Latisha Batkins.

Congratulations on making it through to the state finals, why don’t you tell us about yourself?

I originally from Mount Maunganui, New Zealand (your typical kiwi on the Gold Coast) I moved here two years ago when I was 18 by myself. I am now 20. Moving myself to Australia has definitely been a journey. It was a lot harder than I expected, and still Is hard financially! I am so in love with the ocean and coming from a beach back in New Zealand I New Gold Coast was the place to be, even better I live in Burleigh right on the beach. I’ve played soccer since I was four years old, and my biggest passion is singing, and hope one day to do it professionally.

We all have motivations, Mine usually revolves around coffee ? but what was your key motivation for entering the Miss Universe Australia competition?

My key motivation was really to follow in my mum’s footsteps. (Cliche right) But she made it 3rd in miss New Zealand back in the day, so I’m really hoping to be on par with her or even if I work hard enough get first. Also, I would really love to make a difference in how people view beauty, and I think being apart of this competition I have the chance to influence others. I want beauty to about all the flaws and imperfections and about what’s on the inside. Things these days are so photoshopped, fake, and unrealistic. I want people to feel beautiful as themselves and not feel like they need to change what the look like. That has been a massive struggle for me, but I’m happy to say that I am still 100% natural.

What part of the Miss Universe Australia program are you most looking forward to?

Working with charities mainly kids. I love kids so much. Also the runway, it will be such an amazing experience

We are all unique so what would you say is something that makes you stand out from the other contestants?

I think the fact that I’m a beach lover. My hair is beachy with the odd dread, I am not good at makeup at all, and it’s very rare for my hair to look fancy or formal. I am who I am. I am dorky, clumsy, bubbly and very outgoing. I think I’m just me and I’ve tried to show that in my competition videos but not changing my everyday look or personality for this competition.

With the state finals, just a few days away, has your routine changed at all?

I’m definitely working out a lot more than I used to.. but then again I’m eating a lot more than I used too. I’m trying a lot harder to get rid of my acne and I’m eating a lot cleaner, but I haven’t really changed my routine very much. My primary focus has been finding a job in all honesty then Miss Universe Australia. Hoping this changes soon and I can make Miss Universe Australia my priority

What is something that you hope to bring out of the Miss Universe Australia pageant?

I would really like to continue helping out charities. I think this is so important whether I’m in this competition or not. And also would love to come out of this competition with more confidence and would love to make some new friends as I haven’t made many friends in Australia, but the ones I have made are so awesome and supportive.

What is the most fun thing that has happened to you recently?

Going to the Great Barrier Reef! Honestly was the most amazing experience! I swam with sharks, turtles, jellyfish ( we had lycra suits on, so we didn’t get stung) and saw the most amazing fish. I love the ocean so much and seeing all the sea life was breathtaking!

How would your closest friend describe you?

I don’t really have one close mate. I’d say I’m equally close with all the friends I’ve made in Australia and my friends back in New Zealand. Most would describe me mostly we clumsy to start with; I swear I trip over my own shadow sometimes, they would describe me as courageous, caring, shy until I’m comfortable and a little awkward for sure!

Name five things you can’t live without?

The ocean, Whittekers chocolate, My mum, My dad, Oh my oven (I smashed the oven a week after moving into my new flat, and I love cooking so having no oven for four months was really not ideal) (clumsy)

What is your 5-year goal?

This is an important question to me because I’ve never really had a goal I normally just take life as it comes and makes irrational moving decisions (New Zealand to Australia) moving has made me struggle so much financially. Moving with no degree or any experience behind me but hospitality has made it hard for me to find a steady job. So I’ve now made a goal. I have another 2 and a half years before I can apply for citizenship and get a hex. So for the next year, I am going save and work hard. Then travel for six months and in 2019 and for three months help communities overseas less fortunate. Travel has always been my dream but financially hasn’t been possible. So I’m saving to travel. Then when I’m back, I’m going to apply for citizenship and go to university to study forensics or get into police college. My life has always just been to go with the flow, and things will work themselves out. So I’m very proud to have something to strive towards.

Latisha is also raising money for ToyBox International please consider making a donation at EveryDayHero

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Owen George

Owen George

Editor & Chief of Gold Coast Magazine is a lover of great coffee and sharing the stories of the people, places, and events that make the Gold Coast such a great city

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