It’s that exciting time of year again! We’re chatting with Sifundo Nhlebela of Western 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, Sifundo, why don’t you start by telling us a bit about yourself?

My name is Sifundo, I am 26 years old. Born in Brisbane, Australia, but Perth is home. My mum is from a small kingdom in Africa called Eswatini, and my dad is German. Currently, I work in luxury car sales but would love to pursue a career in modelling. I would say I’m quite multifaceted—introverted and extroverted at times, depending on the company. I love the outdoors and exploring nature. I was fortunate to grow up before the iPad era, so I’m not afraid to get my hands dirty and engage in outdoor activities. At the same time, I adore the glitz and glam of dressing up and looking the part.

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

I honestly never pictured myself participating in Miss Universe Australia. My sister had taken part a few years ago and absolutely excelled, but it was never something I saw myself doing. I received a lot of encouragement from friends and family to sign up, and after procrastinating for a while, I decided it would be exciting to do something that completely pushed me out of my comfort zone!

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?

It truly was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The bonds formed and memories made on that trip are something I’ll cherish and look back on forever. We were blessed with the most beautiful group of finalists—inside and out—and the support from the Miss Universe team was just incredible. I couldn’t fault one thing.

What would you say was the highlight of the trip?

For me, it was the official swim photoshoot. I was allocated the “Night Light” theme, which I had been hoping for! A thunderstorm rolled in, and so did the frogs, but the rain really made the photos pop. We were in groups while shooting, and the girls cheering you on and hyping you up behind the scenes was just the cherry on top.

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

An area I feel needs some more TLC is my ability to speak publicly. The NIDA course was probably the aspect of the trip that pushed me out of my comfort zone and I found it challenging in the best way.

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 give my younger self a big hug and tell her to stop doubting herself, block out all the outside noise, and be patient. Everything that is meant for you will come to you if you put in the work.

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

It’s hard to pinpoint one definitive thing that sets you apart from another person. We have been thrown into such a diverse group of women from all different walks of life—business owners, entrepreneurs, creatives, and more. I would say my ability to build connections and rapport with people sets me apart. As mentioned before, my public speaking skills may need some improvement, but when it comes to smaller groups and connecting with people one-on-one, I believe I really excel. I work in luxury sales, so an important component of my job is building connections, trust, understanding, and relating to people, which I think is an essential skill.

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

I used to be the biggest tomboy! When I was in primary school, I would collect snails and keep them as pets until my mum found them and doused them with salt. It was a very sad day.

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

So many things come to mind—business ideas, non-profit organisations. If there were no limits on time or resources, I would create a housing scheme to assist with homelessness. I would build a housing complex that not only provides a safe place to sleep but also offers employment opportunities so people can have an income and support themselves. I can imagine it would take a lot of planning, but you mentioned ‘no limits.’

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

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

That’s a hard question, as there are so many options! I’d say singing. I was not blessed with angelic vocal cords and am quite tone deaf, but that doesn’t stop me from singing my heart out—just block your ears!

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

I went on a solo trip to Thailand when I turned 20. The food and culture are so beautiful, and I plan on visiting again.

Do you have a guilty pleasure that you enjoy?

Anything sweet! I have an insatiable sweet tooth and have had one since I can remember. My mum would always hide the chocolates and Nutella when I was little because I would devour them before anyone else got the chance.

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

To teleport, for sure! I would travel to all my favourite places around the world.

Help Sifundo and the Miss Universe Australia Finalists Make a Difference

Sifundo, 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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