Well, it’s that time of year when the search to find Miss Universe Australia is well underway with state finals kicking off across the country.
Starting off our home state interviews is Ella Golding one of the contestants who will be competing for a place in the national final held later this year in Melbourne at Sofitel Melbourne on Collins, Wednesday, August 31st, 2016 where the nations finalists will be competing for the title of Miss Universe Australia 2016.

Congratulations on making it so far in the coveted Miss Universe Australia competition tell us a little about yourself..?
I am a passionate, fun loving and creative person who enjoys fashion, food and travel. I currently work in marketing and events and work in business with my Mum. I freelance as a stylist, model, events consultant and brand ambassador. I love attending fashion and media events for work and enjoy meeting new people and new experiences.

Who or what inspired you to get involved in the Miss Universe Australia pageant?
My decision to enter the Miss Universe pageant was influenced by my desire to try new opportunities in the industry and push myself to grow and develop in business and as a woman. The Miss Universe community is a powerful and supportive group that teaches young women about how to be dynamic, influential and a role model and that is something I admire to be.

Speaking of inspiration what inspires you most?

I am empowered by strong and confident women who know what they want in life and are happy and healthy. Women who have a strong sense of self and are successful in whatever they choose are definitely people I admire. I believe Miss Universe promotes these values in the girls, which is why I am very proud to be part of this year’s team.
What is something that you hope to bring out of the Miss Universe Australia pageant?
I hope that by being involved in the Miss Universe pageant, I develop more confidence and a greater ability to present myself in professional and social environments, such as public speaking and being a brand ambassador. I endeavour to help support and work with all the brands and entities sponsoring the pageant and make some amazing contacts and friends along the way.

The Miss Universe Pageant has a long history of associating with charity are there any social causes that are particularly close to your heart that you would like to use the platform of Miss Universe to advance?
An issue that concerns me is the mental and emotional health of youth and young adults. It stresses me that many young people are not achieving their full potential because of confidence, social issues and health problems. It is important to me to support young adults and teenagers because we are responsible for the future. Any charity supporting youth and guidance is important to me, and I would love to help this cause in any way, although any charity is worthwhile!

The rivalry between states is sure to be heightened this year why do you think Queensland is the best state to take out Miss Universe Australia?
Queensland girls have always been hard workers and very determined to be recognised and show off our state to the most developed cities in Australia. We are aware of our strengths as a state and are always keen to work in teams to achieve goals. The Queensland girls will be strong competitors as we will help all the girls around us achieve their potential and develop a strong bond.

GETTING TO KNOW YOU

What is something you find yourself always saying?
‘I’ll figure it out!’ Always trying to reassure myself that I’ll be able to solve the problem!

How would your closest friend describe you?
Unique, fun to tease and a busy mind

What are your top three values that you live by?

Live your life with passion in every form

Stay true to yourself

Embrace your differences

Something that makes you stand out from other contestants?
I believe that my experience and interest in the fashion and media industries is my point of difference, as through my career I have been gathering the necessary skills and knowledge to help me achieve success in the Miss Universe competition. Working in the industry since I was very young, I have developed a fierce love for networking, supporting brands and events, as well as fashion and beauty, which I believe is experience and a skill set that no other Miss Universe contestant has.

What does your current fitness regime look like in the lead up to the state finals ..?
I am very grateful to be receiving special support by Think 24hr Fitness as due to injuries I have to stick to a particular routine! My everyday workout consists of a long brisk walk and precise strengthening exercises tailored to suit my particular training needs.

Name five things you can’t live without?
A good meal, a nice shower, Paw Paw Ointment, my iPhone and the people I love.

What song would you say is your personal anthem or theme song and why?
I don’t think there is one song that defines me! Different songs suit different aspects of my personality – so maybe I need a soundtrack!