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 Madeleine Epstein
Congratulations on making it through to the state finals, why don’t you tell us about yourself?
I am a 22-year student currently studying towards my Bachelor of Primary Education while working full time as a kindergarten teacher. Going to work every day to be greeted by smiles and laughter is infectious, I can not help but be happy around such innocent children. I am lucky to have the opportunity to help shape a child’s morals, ethics, beliefs and be able to be such a big influence in their life to help them grow. Travel is my passion, I have travelled to 7 different countries, visiting many of these more than once (Fiji, Japan, USA, England, Italy, France, Indonesia) with my favourite destination being NYC. In my free time I like to go scuba diving, I fell involve with the adrenaline rush and exploring such a magical world.
We all have motivations, Mine usually revolves around coffee ? but what was your key motivation for entering the Miss Universe Australia competition?
Miss Universe Australia will provide me with the desired platform to help make change within our younger generations and push for difference within the current schooling systems in regards to the bullying and mental health epidemic we face in our country. Children must be provided with knowledge of how actions can effect others from a young age and that it only takes one person to stand up against a bully. I aim to teach children to love themselves for who they are and not to compare themselves to others, but to appreciate their own strengths. I wish to push for change for gender equality through the correct education of our younger generations. Teaching boys and girls to view themselves as having the same strengths and opportunities will be a small step for change. This is my passion and what motivated me to enter the Miss Universe Australia competition.
What part of the Miss Universe Australia program are you most looking forward to?
The Miss Universe Australia competition provides many amazing opportunities to work with a variety of sponsors and fantastic Charities. This year’s competition has partnered with Toybox International whose dedicated team support sick and disadvantaged children and their families get back on their feet. I am excited for all the girls to come together to support such a deserving cause while creating lifelong friendships in the process.
Maddy is also raising money for ToyBox International please consider making a donation at EveryDayHero
We are all unique so what would you say is something that makes you stand out from the other contestants?
Everyone has their own unique attributes and set of skills. However something I am incredibly proud of is my determination, discipline and resilience to keep going when things get tough, I love a challenge.
With the state finals, just a few days away, has your routine changed at all?
My routine has not changed dramatically as I work full time and still have to fit in study so keeping my weekday routine is essential. However, I have added extra training sessions to my week, to give myself the best preparation possible physically and mentally. Feeling fit and healthy increases my confidence, provides me with the needed energy for my day to day activities as well as making me feel overall fantastic!
What is something that you hope to bring out of the Miss Universe Australia pageant?
At the conclusion of the Miss Universe Australia contest, I hope to have increased my self-confidence to assist in my future career in education. As well as built multiple friendships that I will carry with me through life and created partnerships with some amazing brands.
What is the funniest thing that has happened to you recently?
The children that I teach fill me with laughter every day. It is safe to say that nothing surprises me anymore with the situations children find themselves in on a daily basis.
How would your closest friend describe you?
If my closest friends were to describe me, they would say that I am very passionate about my job and all things that I take on in life. I am a positive, determined, enthusiastic person who always likes to take the glass half full approach to life.
Name five things you can’t live without?
My family because they are always there to provide me with love and support. My fitness, I train to make myself feel good mentally and physically. Coffee, explains itself! The ocean, I am always my happiest when I am near or in the ocean. Laughter, it is the best type medicine!
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
If I could change one thing in the world, it would be to ensure that every child, no matter what gender or culture, has the right and the opportunity to an education.
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