It’s that exciting time of year again! We’re chatting with Mikaela Giancaspro of Western Australia, 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, Mikaela, why don’t you start by telling us a bit about yourself?
My name is Mikaela, I am from Perth, WA, and have lived here my whole life. I have an Italian and Croatian background, which plays a significant role in my life as I am very family-oriented. I currently work as a personal and group fitness trainer. Taking on a young female client with cerebral palsy inspired me to return to university to study a Bachelor of Education (Primary). Seeing her face light up after completing movements she didn’t think she could manage is a memory I’ll never forget. It made me realise that I have a natural talent for working with young kids, teaching them, and guiding them through setbacks.
I also do freelance modelling and acting alongside studying and working. Acting has always been my dream job. After graduating from the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA) with a Diploma in Acting, I discovered a deep passion for working in the arts industry with creatives. It’s an ultimate goal I’d like to achieve. Others often describe me as bubbly and outgoing, and I take pride in these traits.
What inspired you to take the leap and enter Miss Universe Australia?
A few friends had previously participated in the Miss Universe Australia Program, and I always thought it would be an amazing experience. With just a week left to apply, I saw the opportunity on Instagram and took it as a sign! I knew this incredible program could provide me with the opportunities to work in the industry I’ve always wanted to be part of and give me a platform to promote my passions. Miss Universe Australia intertwines elements of my dream career, offering opportunities to advocate and be an empowering role model for young women while working with children’s charities. I saw it as a unique chance to step into the next phase of my career and advocate for personal passions such as confident, healthy living and mindfulness among people of all ages.
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?
The experience was truly life-changing! Vietnamese culture is beautiful, and the local staff were incredibly kind and helpful. Having previously visited Vietnam in different circumstances—staying with a local family and helping to build a bathroom—I relished the chance to see a different side of this diverse nation. My earlier trip involved experiencing everyday life with a working family, including sleeping on the floor. My time at Hoiana Resort & Golf was a different experience entirely. It was magical to see a different side of Vietnam. While I thoroughly enjoyed my stay, it was the kindness of the locals and the staff at Vietjet and Hoiana Resort & Golf that made the experience unforgettable.
What would you say was the highlight of the trip?
I have two standout highlights from the trip:
Firstly, our visit to Hearing and Beyond, a school in Vietnam that assists deaf children in Hoi An. I love working with young children, and it was a pleasure to see them come to school excited to learn, their faces lighting up with gratitude. Experiences like this make you realise how fortunate we are in Australia and how much we take for granted, such as hearing and the resources available to assist children with hearing impairments.
Secondly, my Miss Universe Australia official swimwear shoot was a significant highlight. I had never worked with professional photographers, videographers, and hair and makeup artists before. Most of my previous work in this field involved helping friends or small businesses in my community, so being on a professional set was a dream come true.
Can you describe an experience in Vietnam that pushed you out of your comfort zone?
The Miss Universe Australia official swimwear shoot was an experience that pushed me out of my comfort zone. Although it was one of my highlights for working on a professional set, it was also daunting. My photoshoot, designed by Sophia Barbagallo, featured dark makeup and slicked-back hair—styles I would never choose for myself. Feeling confident on the outside is crucial for inner confidence. The styles were a significant departure from my usual look, forcing me to push past self-doubts and insecurities. I had to trust the creative team’s process, and I’m glad I did. I fell in love with the shoot concept and had a fantastic time working with the team.
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?
I’d tell my younger self to keep being true to your creative, passionate, and determined nature. You will face times when this side of you falters, and insecurities may become overwhelming. Keep pushing past those moments when you feel inadequate and remain strong in your self-worth. Block out the voice of your inner critic! Your physical features are not setbacks; they reflect your heritage, athleticism, and passions. Your differences are what will make you shine and stand out, no matter what you do!
With everyone bringing their own unique flair to the program, what would you say sets you apart from the other contestants?
I believe my unique sense of style sets me apart. I love vintage fashion, movies, and music. Much of what I wear is passed down from my mum or op-shopped, and if it’s not, it’s inspired by the 70s or my favourite retro movies and actresses.
I also promote the idea that strong and healthy is beautiful. Today’s society is often driven by trends set by fashion fads and celebrities. Unfortunately, many young women are influenced by the notion that beauty is only achieved if you are thin. Body image issues are something many young females struggle with. I advocate for healthy living without adhering to extreme or unattainable standards. This means enjoying both healthy foods and treats while participating in exercises you love. I believe this balance is key to maintaining a healthy relationship with food and exercise.
What’s something about you that people might find surprising?
I broke my leg at the age of 16 while doing hurdles at my interschool athletics carnival. I underwent two surgeries and had to relearn how to walk due to the break’s location. This incident caused significant setbacks in how I viewed my body and had a considerable impact on my mental health. I think this experience was the catalyst for my commitment to maintaining a strong and healthy body and mind.
If you could work on any dream project, with no limits on time or resources, what would it be?
I’d love to be part of a female-directed and produced film as a powerful female lead. Ideally, I’d work alongside Greta Gerwig, who is a female icon in the film industry. She produces and directs some of the most beautiful movies with dynamic female roles. Her films portray female characters who are not necessarily heroes but are diverse women with depth, emotional strength, and authentic portrayals of life’s tribulations.
We have a few quick questions to wrap up the interview:
If you could instantly master any skill, what would it be and why?
Singing! I’ve never been exceptionally good at it, but I really enjoy it. I’ve been dancing since the age of five, but mastering singing would make me a triple threat!
What’s the most adventurous thing you’ve ever done?
The first time I went on a plane, I decided to fly to Vietnam with a group of people I didn’t know from all around Australia instead of going to leavers (schoolies). It was the best decision I could have made.
Do you have a guilty pleasure that you enjoy?
Musicals! I love old-school musicals; they have a magical quality to them.
If you could have any superpower for a day, what would it be and how would you use it?
Teleportation! I’ve always dreamed of travelling extensively and experiencing different cultures. Teleportation would make travelling so much easier and much cheaper!
Help Mikaela and the Miss Universe Australia Finalists Make a Difference
Mikaela, 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.
