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 Sarah Gilbert 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..?
Hello. Firstly, thank you very much. I am overwhelmed with the excitement of having the opportunity to be a participant in the Miss Universe Australia competition. I have recently moved to Brisbane from Townsville, North Queensland to live closer to the family- and also to escape the heat. I am currently in my last year of Nursing Science as an external student; I prefer listening to my lectures as podcast outdoors on my Mac, rather than be locked in a classroom. I truly am passionate about helping others . Specifically, young youths and endeavour to specialise in mental health nursing once I graduate nursing. I thoroughly enjoy boxing, running and well, anything to do with getting the blood pumping.
Who or what inspired you to get involved in the Miss Universe Australia pageant?
Honestly, I was driven to be involved at such a young age. I recall watching Jennifer Hawkins compete back in 2004 and was just so mesmerised by her mannerism and natural beauty. I was only eleven years old but knew in my heart Miss Universe Australia was something I wanted to be involved in. I believe the reason why I felt this way, is because this competition doesn’t depict one’s beauty; specifically, but focus on one’s internal beauty, passion and intelligence and takes a strong woman.
Speaking of inspiration what inspires you most?
I often get strange looks when I answer this question. The person who inspires me most is Hillary Clinton. Yes, the politician. She is such an independent woman who stands up for what she believes in, even when not everyone necessarily has faith in her/her ideas. Hillary has created numerous programs, which promote support for foster children, adoption and children’s health insurance. She continues to help others in need and promotes a healthy lifestyle.
What is something that you hope to bring out of the Miss Universe Australia pageant?
I would like to maintain contact with the other girls who are competing in Miss Universe Australia; I have found that all of the other contestants I have met and hung out with are so genuine and kind. They say friendships can last a lifetime, which I believe is priceless.
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?
I am currently writing a non-fiction book focusing on mental health, specifically youth. So yes, I would say I would thoroughly like to use the platform of Miss Universe to advance on this issue. As I find mental health so fascinating and unpredictable. It is astonishing how many youths (and adults) are living with a mental illness but do not have enough/correct information available to them.
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
I often hear the comment, ‘Queenslanders are very relaxed’ I feel that this gives us Queensland girls a heightened advantage because let’s face it, who doesn’t love a laid back/easing going person? I also believe this kind of mannerism- (especially when it comes to meet-and-greeting new people) is phenomenal. As it shows the other person/people, you’re confident and can have a fun whilst also being professional.
GETTING TO KNOW YOU
What is something you find yourself always saying …?
“I need coffee” (haha!) – No seriously
How would your closest friend describe you?
Energetic, kind hearted and caring
What are your top three values that you live by?
Respect, trust and equality
Something that makes you stand out from other contestants?
Oh gosh, I would hope many of my personal attributes stand out from the other contestants. If I can only say one, it would have to be my overly enthusiastic energy/presentence.
What does your current fitness regime look like in the lead up to the state finals ..? I gain muscle extremely quickly, so I am pausing weight training and focusing on my running (mostly along the Brisbane river) and high-intensity activities like boxing and (of course) yoga!
Name five things you can’t live without?
1. WATER! I drink so much…
2. Talking
3. Coffee- I am a barista, I am allowed to be addicted…
4. Friends/family
5. Mylk Chocolate (Like chocolate, minus the dairy)
What song would you say is your personal anthem or theme song and why…?
I love the song “Beautiful Day” by U2. In the song they speak about being ‘out of luck’ and ‘being stuck’ but it is still a beautiful day because the artist can ‘look on the bright side’. This song always makes me feel so happy.
