Miss Universe Australia - Finalist interview Tegan Martin of NSW

Congratulations on making it so far in the coveted Miss Universe Australia competition tell us a little about yourself …!
Thankyou very much. My name is Tegan Martin, I am 21 years old and from the city of Newcastle. I am a passionate health advocate, exercise fanatic and keen cook. I have modelled overseas in both Europe and Asia and love to travel and meet new people from all walks of life. I particularly enjoy trying and experiencing new things and learn a lot through the process of osmosis – absorbing as much information as possible from a diverse range of people and different experiences!
Who inspires you most ….?
As of late I have drawn a lot of inspiration from Turia Pitt. After suffering catastrophic burns to 64% of her body, her courage and positive outlook on future life is incredible. Instead of giving up like many people would she wants her story to make a difference: her mission is to make skin a more prominent organ in the repertoire of donated organs. This story has touched my heart and empowered me to always be positive, help others and be the best person I can be.
What do you do for a living ….?
I am a fulltime model & actress, qualified hairstylist, makeup artist and am currently studying towards a degree in nutritional medicine.
Speaking of work where is your favourite place to kick up your heels after a hard day of work …?
Being fairly new to the Sydney social scene I can’t really say I have a favorite place to kick up my heels yet – after a hard day of work I would prefer a hot shower, a cup of tea and a catchup with a friend.
And what does your ideal day of rest and relaxation entail …?
Massage! I could have one every day of the week!! A massage I would enjoy is probably extremely painful to the average person ha ha.
Including your favourite chill out music …?
Favourite chill out music is the soft playing music that plays while I am doing hot yoga, no lyrics just simple soft music that clears your mind of all clutter.
And how would you say your work if at all has prepared you for the Miss Universe Australia Competition…?
Being a model and actress I am constantly expected to work with a different team of people and be able to converse with anyone about anything. Recently dabbling in some presenting has been incredible for my stage confidence and media confrontation skills. I have spent a lot of time speaking in front of the camera and walking and talking on stage so I feel my stage presence is very strong which is imperative for a competition like this. My volunteer work with the Shine for girl program at schools, amongst other things, has kept me in touch with the charity element of Miss Universe Australia which is probably what I look forward to most of all if I am lucky enough to win this year.
What is something people might find interesting about yourself..?
I am very co- ordinated at all ball sports. Males are generally impressed when I step up and verse them in a quality game of basketball or tennis. I am extremely competitive!
How would you describe your personal Style…?
I would say my style is fairly girly. I love to dress up in a beautiful dress and heels, however my fortay is teaming my outfits with the perfect hairstyle and makeup as I have a background in both. I think the Miss Universe sponsor “Face of Australia” and I would make a great team!
Talking of style who is your favourite designer or brand …?
I generally try to support Aussie designers – Rachel Gilbert is amazing!
And what does your beauty & fitness regime consist of …? 
My fitness regime consists of power yoga, boxing and high intensity interval training along with some nice long beach walks with friends. I am very particular about good nutrition and hydration and ensure my skin is well cleansed and moisturised both morning and night.
Where do you see the Miss Universe Journey taking you …?
I see the Miss Universe journey taking me to a level of recognition where I am able to use my profile to empower and inspire young woman. I am particularly passionate about improving the issue of mental health in our youth which I have been able to do over the last year using the power of my 1st runner up sash from last years’ competition, however I would love to be able to do this on a larger scale.
We all have a favourite saying or personal mantra what would you say is yours..?
If you can dream it, you can do it.
Walt Disney
And what are the five things in your life you just can’t live without …?
My family, a sense of humour, exercise, sunshine, love <3

Feature Image: Chris Lew
Inset: Neil Dixon