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 28.
We are chatting with Ruby Compton, from NSW who will be competing for the 2018 title of Miss Universe Australia.
So why don’t you tell our readers a little about yourself?
My name is Ruby Compton, and I am 20 years old from NSW Australia. Currently, I am studying a bachelor of Physiotherapy Honours at University and hope to use this degree to specify in the recovery of Neurally impaired patients. My brother’s rehabilitation from major brain surgery inspired this. I love adventure and spent my younger years travelling around Australia in a caravan with my family. It really made me appreciate the simple things in life, and I think this reflects in my easy going – laid back personality. On any given day you’ll most likely find me at the beach as I am a true Aussie beach bum at heart!
So you’ve just returned from the Miss Universe Finalists trip to the Amazing Allia Hotels in Bali… How was the experience?
Something I will never forget! I have never in my life stayed at a 5-star resort and was blown away by the beauty of the resort and service of the staff at Alila. It was a fantastic setting to bond with the other National Finalists, and when it came the time, I don’t think anyone wanted to leave!
We know there was an amazing program of things for you all, what was your highlight?
There were so many highlights! However, if I had to choose one, I would say that meeting the kids from Sari Hati school was by far my favourite. This school focusses on providing a safe and vital learning environment for children with disabilities in Bali. Similar to what they learn in class they taught us dances, recipes, sports and even yoga. One of the little boys also stole a kiss on the cheek as we left, it was adorable!
So now you’re home and having undergone the best prep we can think of you know the sun, surf and Bali …. it’s not long till the national finals in Melb… how are you feeling in the lead-up and what sort of preparation are you doing, before finals week commences?
I’m feeling good! I’m trying not to focus my energy on thinking about the outcome and more so just enjoying the ride. I like to be fairly active so just keeping up with my regular fitness routine and eating a well-balanced diet in the lead-up. I Have also been getting my family members to ‘Pop Quiz’ me on world issues and to start thinking about my opinion on different topics.
With so many of you all bringing an individual flair to the competition, what do you think will set you apart from the other contestants?
I think it is my ‘girl next door’ vibe that might appeal to the judges and to Australia. I was blessed to grow up travelling around our beautiful country and living amongst all different cultures. It would be an honour to represent it! I think if someone is wholeheartedly natural and authentic to themselves in the competition that is unbeatable and I like to think I express those qualities.
Speaking of being unique we all have different motivations, what is something that motivates you daily or you would say is your passion?
My ultimate motivation is the determination my parents instilled in me from a young age, and I think growing up with two older brothers helps as well! I’ve always strived to go after things in my life and have never let anything stop me. I had rare Blount’s disease as a child, and this resulted in me having a severely bowed leg, but this never stopped me climbing Uluru (brace and all) at age four unassisted. I think if you just give everything in your life a fair go then you create so many more opportunities and experiences.
What is something people might find interesting about yourself?
I think the most interesting and rewarding thing I have done in my life is the two Mission trips I volunteered on in Vanuatu. Following a natural disaster, our group provided blankets, shoes, schooling supplies and even labour to rebuild what was lost. We painted Houses and made lasting memories with the children. I think the joy you get from the happiness of others is the most heartwarming feeling.
Where is your favourite place in the world to wind down and relax?
I think I could wind down and relax at anywhere in the world there is sun, ocean and sand. The beach is by far my ultimate happy place!
The Miss Universe program has a long and proud history and focuses on helping women become the best versions of themselves, how do you think your experience so far will help move you forward in life?
I think it has opened a window for me to talk to people about what I’m really passionate about. The platform it gives you instils confidence to voice to people your opinions about real issues and talk about what really matters to us. It’s not just a beauty pageant, and that’s why I entered the competition.
What is the funniest thing that has happened to you recently?
I met Icecube! I arrived back from Bali and was really hanging out for a coffee and a hash brown (Pageant girls eat too!). I went to Mcdonalds and was utterly unaware of the massive crowd circulating. I ordered and then heard in a loud projection “WHO GOT THE HASHBROWNS PEOPLE?” and there was IceCube and his son holding my breakfast! Crazy.
Name five things you can’t live without?
Beach, Skateboard, Family, Friends and my puppy Cosmo.
How would your closest friend describe you?
They’d probably describe me as energetic, confident and humorous.
What do you love to do in your spare time?
I love to sew and make my own garments! There’s something so fulfilling in creating something yourself. I even had my own sustainable clothing label at one point, where I would make different items out of reusable fabrics and donate proceeds to a local Vinnies.
Above Tittle Photography by Beauty on Film @beautyonfilm on instagram
