Today we are catching up with Mia Dalkos of South 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, Mia why don’t you tell us a little about yourself?

I am 22 years old and currently work for the Department of Education at a public High School located in Adelaide, as a Student Support Officer, supporting children with learning disabilities.

I founded a small hire boutique business in 2021, where I rent out designer gowns to women across Australia for their special events.

I love Boxing, Running, Pilates and have a great love for the ocean. I come from a traditional Greek family background and take great pride in my heritage.

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 to challenge myself, develop in self growth and to step out of my comfort zone. I felt if I could achieve this, I could inspire like-minded women to achieve their goals and follow their dreams. The mere experience of being involved and associated with MUA’s platform is an incredible opportunity and would enable me to use my voice to motivate and inspire women to never give up and chase what truly fulfils their purpose and makes them happy.

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?

Travelling to Vietnam was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. I was able to connect and create special friendships and build lifelong memories with an inspiring bunch of beautiful women. It was the first time I had travelled alone, and initially the thought was quite daunting; however, I have never had so much fun in my life. I truly felt that I returned from Vietnam an improved version of myself and I believe it was due to being given the opportunity to meet so many like-minded women, who all had a unique story to tell, and we were all able to learn so much from one another.

The NIDA course, swim wear photoshoot with Jarrad Seng and walking workshop empowered me and helped build my confidence in many aspects and provided me with skills and tools that I can use in my everyday life.

What would you say was the highlight of your trip?

It’s difficult to pick only one highlight as there were clearly many, but the main highlight for me was having the privilege to spend time with the children and families at the Da Nang Association of Victims affected by Agent Orange. It was a very eye-opening experience and to be given an insight into their world. It really puts everything into perspective. Not only that, but it was a morning filled with dancing, laughter and smiles. It genuinely filled me with so much joy that we could make a meaningful and positive impact on their day, one that i will never forget.

With everyone bringing their own unique and individual flair to the program, what is something that sets you apart from the other finalists?

Everyone is so wonderful and unique in their own way, but something that sets me apart from the other finalists i would say is my height, heritage, and determination.

If you could ask our current Miss Universe Australia, Monique Riley, one question, what would it be and why?

How has this opportunity been able to impact your life and the life of others?

I would ask Monique Riley this question, as I am fascinated to understand the opportunities she received from this and how it helped her cause.

Tell us something you’re passionate about and why?

I am very passionate about empowering and helping people find themselves. Truly find their purpose as to what fuels them and ignites their passion along with promoting the importance of self-care and wellness.

I believe that once you can identify what you love to do and chase it, everything else in life falls into place, you flourish in every aspect. Life is tough as it is and people are faced with many obstacles that it is easy to get lost throughout the journey. Which is why I would love to advocate that we are not defined by our hardships, and that we are all powerful and capable of fulfilling our goals and dreams.

To finish up the interview we have a few quick questions

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?

Australia

What’s your ideal way to spend a day off?

Sun, some form of movement, cooking, spending time with family.

What makes you laugh out loud?

The Office.