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

My name is Tahlia, and I’m a 24-year-old Registered Nurse from Dunsborough, WA. I would describe myself as passionate about health and well-being, dedicated to making a positive impact in my community. I strive to be empathetic, driven, and committed to personal growth and authenticity. My background in nursing fuels my desire to help others on a larger scale, and I’m always looking for ways to inspire and uplift those around me.

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

Funnily enough, I was halfway through my lap of Australia, here in Queensland, when I applied for Miss Universe Australia. I realised that there was an opportunity here that felt even bigger than my nursing career. This platform would allow me to raise my voice on a national stage, advocating for authenticity and women’s health. It’s about expanding my impact beyond my current role, using this opportunity to inspire others and drive positive change in areas I’m deeply passionate about.

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?

The Nationals trip to Vietnam was truly incredible. To start, I had the opportunity to fly business class, thanks to the Vietjet team. I met 27 amazing women, each on their own unique journey. We stayed at the stunning Hoiana Resort, which was a highlight of the trip. The culture, history, and food were absolutely captivating. We also visited Hearing and Beyond, a school for the deaf, and I’m proud to be part of supporting their funding for a year.

What would you say was the highlight of the trip?

One of the most memorable takeaways for me was the warmth of the Vietnamese people and their habit of complimenting strangers. It left a lasting impression and taught me the value of spreading kindness through simple gestures.

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

The NIDA workshop definitely pushed me out of my comfort zone. Although I’m passionate about personal growth, I had limited experience performing in front of an audience. I embraced the challenge with an open mind and a willingness to learn. Participating in the workshop boosted my confidence and provided me with valuable skills, which will help me feel more comfortable and effective when speaking to a crowd.

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?

If I could give my younger self some advice, I’d say: “You are more than good enough—believe in yourself, and you’re already halfway there. Embrace every opportunity that comes your way; each one will teach you valuable lessons, help you grow, and open doors to new possibilities.”

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

What sets me apart in Miss Universe Australia is my background in nursing and my dedication to staying true to myself. Nursing has instilled in me the importance of compassion and effective communication while also teaching me the value of authenticity and resilience. These experiences have helped me develop a strong sense of self and the confidence to advocate for what matters. I hope to inspire others to embrace their true selves and live confidently, making a positive impact wherever they go.

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

Something that might surprise people is that after working tirelessly as a nurse during the pandemic, I made the bold choice to leave my job and travel across the country. This leap was a turning point, allowing me to grow, gain new perspectives, and embrace fresh challenges. Without taking that risk, I wouldn’t be here competing today. This journey has taught me the power of stepping out of my comfort zone and becoming comfortably uncomfortable.

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 with no limits, I’d study neuroscience to develop a resource tailored for young women. Using insights from brain science, this project would create tools and programs to enhance mental resilience, cognitive development, and emotional well-being. By offering personalised support and education, we could help young women navigate challenges, build confidence, and become their true selves.

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 master any skill, it would be advanced emotional intelligence. While I value my caring nature, this skill would enable me to deeply understand and connect with others on a profound level, enhancing my ability to offer genuine support and foster compassionate relationships.

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

The most adventurous thing I’ve ever done was leaving home to travel a lap of Australia. Exploring its diverse landscapes and cultures was an eye-opening experience that pushed me out of my comfort zone and deepened my connection to our incredible country.

Do you have a guilty pleasure that you enjoy?

My guilty pleasure is listening to female empowerment podcasts. I love tuning in to hear inspiring stories and advice from incredible women. It’s my way of staying motivated and feeling uplifted, all while celebrating the amazing achievements of women everywhere.

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

If I could have a superpower for a day, I’d choose the ability to teleport to those in need. Whether it’s tackling urgent issues or offering a comforting presence, I’d use this power to create a positive change in their lives. Directly supporting and uplifting others in their time of need would be incredibly fulfilling.

Help Tahlia and the Miss Universe Australia Finalists Make a Difference

Tahlia, 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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