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 Stella Badenoch, from South 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, my name is Stella Badenoch, I am an Actor, it has been one of my passions from the age of 13. It has always intrigued me coming in and out of different characters. I love how it makes me get so in tune with my emotions, but anyone who knows me knows I have never lacked showing that side me.
My Biggest short-term goal is to act alongside the Neighbours Cast.
I am currently preparing to talk to High Schools to raise awareness about Mental Illness. I believe it is so important that we educate our upcoming generation about how to cope with Mental Illness. It is becoming so prominent in Society, with one in five Australians suffering from a Mental Health condition. I have struggled with mental illness, so it is very close to my heart! I feel if I can be a voice for those suffering that I may help them through struggles that I have experienced.
I also enjoy long walks on the beach… just joking! But I do enjoy my fitness I make sure I am always pushing myself and working out at least 3-5 times a week.
Stella 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 experience so far has been incredible; it gives you so many opportunities to face fears and really dissect every part of your life. I think it is something that every woman should do at least once in their lifetime. You really do meet so many amazing people.
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?
The Intercontinental Bali, was amazing it was so lovely to be able to get to know the girls before we get on stage together. The highlight for me was the work shop with Tegan Martin and Nia Sanchez. They focused on Confidence and gave us so many tips to help us through not only the National final week but our everyday life as well.
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 getting so excited for the finals; I am doing everything I usually do to keep fit and healthy with a balanced diet! Although I may be hitting the gym that extra session a week!
I am making sure that my mental headspace is in a good place. I am saying five things I am grateful for each morning and sticking to my Mantra which is “Nothing can dim the light that shines from within you”. I think it’s so important to think of the positives every morning; it sets you up for a good day.
With so many women all bring their individual flare to the competition, what do you think will set you apart from the other contestants?
It’s so hard to say what can set us all apart as we are all driven, intelligent women, trying to make a difference. I think someone who can walk into a room and catch the attention of all without saying a word is something a Miss Universe Australia should have as well as capturing their hearts!
So, fingers crossed I capture their attention and hearts!
Speaking of unique flare or style what would you say is your best style or beauty secret?
I love to wear a BB cream instead of Foundation in my day to day life! It lets my skin breathe a little more. I have also noticed that since I have started doing this, I have fewer pimples than usual. But I think this depends on your skin type also!
What inspired you to enter in the Miss Universe Australia pageant?
Becoming a Miss Universe Australia comes with a big responsibility. I was inspired to enter so that I could continue raising awareness for Mental Health. If my voice can reach more people to raise awareness and help people deal with Mental Illness, I would be really grateful.
Speaking of inspiration who or what inspires you most?
Audre Hepburn, is one of my biggest inspirations.
When asked her secret to beauty she replied with…
For lovely eyes, seek out the good in people.
For a slim Figure, share your food with the hungry.
For beautiful hair, let a child run his or her hands through it once a day.
Now that to me is the true definition of beauty, a truly humble woman who has been a role model for so many.
People more so than things have to be restored, renewed, revived, reclaimed and redeemed. Never throw out anybody.
What is something people might find interesting about yourself?
I have a few hidden talents, I have been singing and dancing from a young age it’s something I keep to myself, it’s a nice party trick every now and again!
What does the average day look like for you?
Well, I am not the most amazing morning person, so I make sure when I get up I have enough time to wake up properly.
I then get ready for work, this can be me preparing for Auditions, or getting ready to sell some amazing jewellery at Pandora.
I am also preparing to talk to more school’s about Mental Health; I am preparing my first speech to give in the next month. I am extremely excited.
But my day never ends without me working out or taking at least 10 minutes for myself.
Where is your favourite place in the world to wind down and relax?
My favourite place has to be my home; I love chilling on the couch with my mum just hanging out and chatting or watching a scary movie! (my mum loves a good scary movie, me, on the other hand, I prefer romantic comedies!)
What is something you find yourself saying all the time?
FABULOUS, well I always say You So Fabulous. I am not sure why but I do it in some weird accent that isn’t really an accent! ha-ha
If you could give yourself one piece of advice five years ago what would it be?
That it’s okay not to be okay and that being you is one of your biggest assets because there is no one else in the world like you! Don’t change yourself for anyone!
And finally what are the five things you couldn’t live without?
Family- They give me so much support!
Friends- They make sure I let my hair down when needed.
Happiness- What is a life without happiness?
My Dog- Well she is one of the family but gets an extra special spot in my heart.
Acting- Everyone who knows me knows I live to be on stage performing and capturing people’s hearts!
