The search to find the next Miss Universe Australia is underway, with National finalists preparing to touch down in Melbourne later this month ahead of the national finals held at the Sofitel on Collins June 29.
We are chatting with Olivia Stanley, from Western Australia who will be competing for the 2017 title of Miss Universe Australia,
Following in the footsteps of Jennifer Hawkins, Rachael Finch, Tegan Martin & Jesinta Campbell.
First of all the introduction, Why don’t you tell us about yourself?
Hello, everyone! My names Olivia Stanley and I’m from Perth, Western Australia. I’m in my second year of my accounting degree at the University of Notre Dame and work as a barista when I’m not studying. I love the outdoors and getting outside when I can; I must have been a farmer in my previous life as I can’t get enough of the country side and being out of the city!
Olivia Congratulations on making it so far in the such a coveted competition, we have to ask how the overall experience has been so far?
The whole Miss Universe Australia journey is incredible and one I would certainly recommend every girl to enter herself in at least once! We are so lucky to be given a chance to take part in this incredible experience and participate in all the activities they organise for us
We have just heard you returned from the Intercontinental Resort in Bali as part of the program, How was the experience and what would you say was your highlight?
Bali was amazing!!! The whole trip was such an incredible experience I would give anything to be back there. We got to take part in so many workshops as well as visit many different places in Bali. The highlight of the trip for me would have to be visiting Bali Life Orphanage and meeting all the incredible kids and staff who live there. The foundation teaches hope, dignity and purpose which you can see shining through each child.
It’s not long now until the finals, how are you feeling in the lead-up and what sort of preparation are you doing, before the finals get underway?
I am feeling good and a little nervous with the final creeping up on us so quickly! To prepare for the week, I’ve been doing a lot of workouts at Hurt Locker as well as getting outdoors and working out. I’ve also tried to eat nice and healthy with a little treat here and there and keeping up to date on current affairs!
With so many women all bring their individual flare to the competition, what do you think will set you apart from the other contestants?
As this is my second time competing I think I can use what I’ve learnt from my previous experience to help set me apart. I think to do this a second time I am a lot less nervous as I know what to expect which helps a lot!!
Speaking of unique flare or style what would you say is your best style or beauty secret?
My best style is being natural and being myself! I feel most confident when I can just be me
What inspired you to enter in the Miss Universe Australia pageant?
Hearing previous girls experiences and seeing what they get to take part in is definitely what inspired me to enter while also wanting to challenge myself to compete in something I’ve never done!
Speaking of inspiration who or what inspires you most?
Someone who inspires me is Malala Yousafzai, She is a Pakistani activist for female education and has an incredible story. She stands up for what she believes in and continues to speak out the importance of education even after nearly being killed for it.
What is something people might find interesting about yourself?
Something people might find interesting is that I’ve probably tried every type of sport possible growing up! From doing Ballet for 15 years to ice skating and even trying polo cross at one point I think I can say I love to give everything a go!
What does the average day look like for you?
My average day would be working as a barista in the morning, studying and taking my gorgeous dog Indi for a walk!
Where is your favourite place in the world to wind down and relax?
My all time favourite time place to relax would have to be outdoors and preferably at the beach or countryside!
What is something you find yourself saying all the time?
Something I say a lot is that I’ve got this and I can do it! My nerves try to get the better of me, but I like to push myself in everything I do
If you could give yourself one piece of advice five years ago what would it be?
It would have to be in everything you do always give it your best shot Liv!! Never do things half-hearted.
And finally what are the five things you couldn’t live without?
Five things I couldn’t live without would have to be…
My family and friends
My 2-year-old Aussie Shepard puppy Indi!
I couldn’t live without WA’s beaches and our Country Side!
Kinda Chocolate… of course 😛
and Music!
