It’s that exciting time of year again! We’re chatting with Olivija Spanovskis from South Australia, one of the 28 remarkable and accomplished women from diverse backgrounds vying for the title of Miss Universe Australia 2024. The winner is set to be crowned in the Grand Ballroom at Crown Perth on the 5th of September.

So, Olivija, why don’t you start by telling us a bit about yourself?

Of course! My name is Olivija, and I’m a 24-year-old from South Australia. My name, with its unique spelling, reflects my Latvian heritage and often serves as a great conversation starter. My passion for travel and creative mind have led me to a career in the experiential tourism industry as a Marketing Executive. I’m fortunate to work in a role that allows me to showcase and explore Australia’s most remote and spectacular destinations. My favourite destination (to date) is Ningaloo Reef, part of the remote and magical Coral Coast!

I’d describe myself as compassionate, loyal, kind, and hardworking, with a genuine and down-to-earth nature. I love to stay active through playing netball (as a goal shooter), going on nature walks and runs, and exploring South Australia’s diverse coastline. I also cherish spending time with friends and family, as I believe that enjoying these simple pleasures is crucial for maintaining mental well-being.

What inspired you to take the leap and enter Miss Universe Australia?

I entered Miss Universe Australia to challenge myself and step beyond my comfort zone. I wanted to prove to myself that with the right mindset, anything is possible. This opportunity allows me to connect with inspiring women from across Australia and reflects my commitment to personal growth.

My journey is shaped by overcoming various challenges that I have faced in the modelling industry since I was 14. I want to inspire the younger generation to pursue their dreams with determination, resilience, and perseverance, which I truly believe will lead to success despite any obstacles they may face.

As part of the program, you had the amazing opportunity to travel to Vietnam, courtesy of Vietjet, and stay at the beautiful Hoiana Resort. How was that experience for you?

My trip to Vietnam was truly unforgettable. It was my first visit to this stunning part of the world, and the resort felt like a dream. We were treated to gorgeous panoramic views, delicious Vietnamese food, and incredible entertainment.

Each day offered exciting experiences that pushed me out of my comfort zone and taught me a lot about myself. I’m deeply grateful for this amazing opportunity and for the incredible relationships I have formed with finalists from across Australia.

What would you say was the highlight of the trip?

There were so many highlights on this trip, but if I had to choose one, it would be the official swim shoot. I had the final photo shoot of the trip, which only fuelled my anticipation, hearing everyone’s excitement on return. The theme of my shoot was ‘Island’, and the mood board was as if it had come straight from my Pinterest! Despite the weather turning, the talented group of creatives crafted an unforgettable experience, making me feel confident in my own skin.

Can you describe an experience in Vietnam that pushed you out of your comfort zone?

I found the NIDA course to be the most challenging. The course focused on public speaking—an area I’m determined to improve—by addressing the various obstacles we face and providing practical methods to overcome them. By the end of the day-long course, the instructors commented on how much I’d grown, reinforcing the importance I place on continually challenging myself in areas where I feel less comfortable or confident.

Your next question comes from our current Miss Universe Australia, Moraya Wilson. Imagine you’re standing on stage with the title of Miss Universe Australia 2024. What advice would you give to your younger self?

I’d tell my younger self to just go for it. Believe in yourself, and you’re halfway there. Self-belief underpins growth, fuelling your drive, passion, and resilience to persevere. View failure as a stepping stone rather than a setback, and remember that success is shaped by your mindset and determination to pursue your dreams. Surround yourself with inspiring and supportive people, never give up, work hard, and hold yourself accountable. Always stay open to learning and be willing to step out of your comfort zone. Embrace every opportunity with your absolute best effort, striving to become the best version of yourself.

With everyone bringing their own unique flair to the program, what would you say sets you apart from the other contestants?

After meeting the other finalists in Vietnam, it was clear that everyone is incredible in their own unique way. What sets me apart is my resilient mindset and unwavering determination. I view every challenge as an opportunity for growth and approach each situation with my full commitment. I stay true to myself—compassionate, kind, empathetic, and genuinely driven—while thriving on making authentic connections and ensuring others feel valued and appreciated. This, combined with a strong work ethic, empowers me to turn challenges into achievements. Professionally, my career in tourism has given me extensive knowledge of Australia’s most remote and breathtaking locations. I am dedicated to showcasing Australia’s hidden gems on a global scale, embodying the compassion, authenticity, and dedication that reflect our country’s essence. My unique blend of resilience, passion, and expertise fuels my commitment to making a positive and meaningful impact.

What’s something about you that people might find surprising?

I’ve been talking a lot about my focus on the Miss Universe journey over the last few months, but I’ve also been switching my makeup brushes for paint brushes on a very involved renovation project. Although these might sound like very different things, I have found myself applying and developing the same creative, determined, and hard-working characteristics.

If you could work on any dream project, with no limits on time or resources, what would it be?

If I could work on any dream project, I would focus on celebrating and preserving Australia’s natural beauty. My vision is to develop an initiative that not only highlights the stunning landscapes of our environment but also emphasises the importance of their conservation. By leveraging my marketing expertise, I would create impactful campaigns to advocate for sustainable practices and responsible tourism. This project would aim to instil a profound respect for nature and inspire widespread commitment to preserving our natural wonders, ensuring that Australia’s landscapes remain as awe-inspiring as they are today.

We have a few quick questions to wrap up the interview:

If you could instantly master any skill, what would it be and why?

If I could instantly master any skill, it would be the Latvian language. This would allow me to deepen my connection with my cultural heritage and surprise my Latvian grandma with a conversation in her native tongue. I imagine the delight on her face as we share that special moment together, bridging generations and celebrating our shared heritage. It would be a meaningful way to honour my roots and further strengthen our bond.

What’s the most adventurous thing you’ve ever done?

For me, adventure is all about stepping out of my comfort zone, and participating in the Miss Universe Australia program has taken me further than I ever imagined. It has been an exhilarating journey, expanding my boundaries and fostering incredible personal growth. What makes this experience particularly special is that it was once something I aspired to achieve. Embracing this opportunity has inspired me to pursue goals I once thought were beyond reach.

Do you have a guilty pleasure that you enjoy?

One of my guilty pleasures is a girls’ night, complete with a delicious cheese platter, of course! I cherish those moments where I can unwind and enjoy good company with those close to me.

If you could have any superpower for a day, what would it be and how would you use it?

If I could have any superpower for a day, I would choose the ability to teleport around the world. This would allow me to experience the incredible diversity of our planet and immerse myself in different cultures, deepening my understanding. My goal would be to help create a more unified world where we appreciate and understand each other’s unique strengths, and collaborate to make a better future.

Help Olivija and the Miss Universe Australia Finalists Make a Difference

Olivija, along with the other Miss Universe Australia Finalists, have collectively raised over $500,000 to support ToyBox and its official 2024 charities: Camp Quality and Ronald McDonald House. You can donate now using the link below.

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