Today we are catching up with Mary Lopez of Western Australia, one of the 24 talented and inspiring women from all walks of life who are hoping to be crowned Miss Universe Australia 2023 at The Sofitel Melbourne on Collins this Friday.
So, Mary why don’t you tell us a little about yourself?
I’m 24 years old and work as a registered nurse, I currently work on an Acute Mental Health Ward, I have specialised in Electroconvulsive Therapy. And when I was 16 years old, I had a near death seizure and this is the reason I’m a nurse!
We all have motivations, mine usually around good coffee, but what was your key motivation for entering Miss Universe Australia?
My key motivation for entering Miss Universe Australia was I had someone very close to me pass away suddenly last year. I knew that he wouldn’t want me to look back at life and say ‘what if’ so I just went for it and have put everything I’ve got into it so far.
As part of the program, you recently went on the National Finalist Trip to Vietnam at Furama Resort Da Nang, what was the experience like?
My experience in Vietnam was quite literally life changing, I felt so special being there. I learnt a-lot about myself on that trip, and I made some lifelong friendships too.
What would you say was the highlight of your trip?
The highlight of my trip was actually the welcome dinner on the beach. The set-up, the culture, and the food was unbelievable.
With everyone bringing their own unique and individual flair to the program, what is something that sets you apart from the other finalists?
What sets me apart from the other finalists is, not everyone gets a second chance at life. After my near death seizure. I knew that there was a reason and purpose for me. I would rather not leave any stone unturned, and if I do something, it’ll be with my whole heart.
If you could ask our current Miss Universe Australia, Monique Riley, one question, what would it be and why?
How did you cope and prioritise your mental health throughout your journey as Miss Universe Australia? I’m a massive mental health advocate, and it’s important to understand that regardless of professional status and achievements, it’s always important to look after yourself.
Tell us something you’re passionate about and why?
I’m passionate about mental health, specifically suicide prevention. I have been exposed to various mental illnesses in my field of work. Furthermore, I believe that there is a lack of awareness, empathy, and education surrounding mental health disorders. My passion for this stems from wanting to help people beyond the walls of the hospital and on a larger scale to reduce the numbers of suicide in Australia.
To finish up the interview we have a few quick questions
If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?
Italy, the Tuscan hills. The food, the culture, and way of living would be everything I’d want. Simple but peaceful.
What’s your ideal way to spend a day off?
Definitely a sleep in, the gym, get a coffee and go for a walk in the sun and spend the rest of the day relaxing with my cat Bruno.
What makes you laugh out loud?
Definitely watching my dad try to use social media, “he thought messenger was Instagram.”
