Today we’re chatting with Uma Dawson from New South Wales, one of 28 remarkable women vying for the Miss Universe Australia 2026 crown, to be decided on August 26 at Palladium, Crown Melbourne. In a first for the pageant, this year’s national final will be broadcast live nationally on the Seven Network.
So Uma, why don’t you start by telling us a bit about yourself?
I am 22 years old and a proud Fijian Indian and Australian living in Sydney. I am in my final year of a scholarship program studying Commerce majoring in Accounting and Marketing.
I work as a model, a part-time accountant and love to volunteer with children through The Pyjama Foundation. My favorite things in the world are my family and friends, walks near the beach, the gym and going out to eat!
What inspired you to take the leap and enter Miss Universe Australia?
I was raised by a single mum who always encouraged me to take risks and do things that challenge me. In 2026 I decided it would be the year I say yes to everything, so when the opportunity to do Miss Universe Australia came along, I jumped to enter it despite being scared. I knew the growth and self-development would be huge. It was also an amazing opportunity to network and build connections with like-minded women.
As part of the program, you had the amazing opportunity to travel to Vietnam and stay at the beautiful Mövenpick Resort Cam Ranh. How was that experience for you?
Vietnam was the most amazing experience and the hospitality of Mövenpick Resort Cam Ranh made it so special.
I think I enjoyed Vietnam so much because of the people. I was so lucky to be surrounded by 27 incredible women, Lexie and Monique, as well as the Pink Tank Events Team and sponsors. The connections and memories I made will be cherished forever.
What’s one moment from the trip you don’t think you’ll ever forget?
An unforgettable moment was the Waste 2 Art children’s charity event. Spending time with the school children was so special and their excitement to meet us and show their sustainable artworks made me feel so warm and grateful to be in the program.
A close second was the walking workshops with the icon Thelma! I was so nervous but she truly empowered and supported me which transformed my walk and gave me confidence. Thelma is the absolute best to work with and the workshops felt like a dance party.
As part of the trip, you also took part in your official swimwear shoot with Unnecessary. What was the experience like?
I was super excited for my official swimwear shoot but also nervous as I have never done a shoot before where I show up completely blind to the mood board, hair, makeup and outfit.
From the moment I arrived in hair and makeup it was the most amazing experience. The MUA team made me feel so supported and confident in my own skin the whole time. I knew whatever Unnecessary swim outfit I wore would look amazing and I truly felt so confident and beautiful!
Your next question comes from our current Miss Universe Australia, Lexie Brant. What is one belief or perspective that you’ve changed your mind about recently, and what caused that change?
A belief that has changed recently is the belief that I could be a role model for other young girls. I always thought that being a role model is something that an older person did and was also something that you know you are ready for. What I have learnt from everything that I have done this year is that you just need to embrace opportunities and that as a role model you just need to start with kindness, empathy and confidence.
The simple acts of embracing unique features like being mixed race, my natural look and my life experiences can inspire others more than I ever imagined.
With everyone bringing their own unique flair to the program, what would you say sets you apart from the other finalists?
Something that sets me apart is my tenacity and determination. I truly believe anything I set my mind to I can achieve with hard work. My life experiences have shaped me to follow my goals relentlessly but always carry myself with kindness and empathy.
These qualities have allowed me to build a life I am proud of. This has shaped my studies, work experience and my modelling career, but my biggest achievement comes from the amazing people I surround myself with. The Miss Universe Australia program provides me with a greater platform to achieve my goals and share my voice and beliefs. With or without the platform I will continue to work hard towards my dreams.
What’s one skill, trip, or activity, not Miss Universe related, that you want to tick off your list before the end of 2026?
By the end of 2026 I would love to graduate with my university degree. After four years of study, I am excited to swap out my books and laptop for a cap and gown!
If you could work on any dream project, with no limits on time or resources, what would it be?
I would love to open centres in lower socioeconomic areas for children in school to visit for free. There would be tutors, career advisors, food and clothes for the children. Many children do not have a safe place to go before or after school and struggle when trying to get support with their studies and finding future career paths.
I believe education has the power to elevate people and many children just need someone to encourage, support and believe in them.
If 2026 had a theme song, what would it be?
Rein Me In by Olivia Dean and Sam Fender
What’s the most “you” thing currently sitting in your camera roll?
Probably pictures of food. I love going out to eat with friends and family.
Best piece of advice you’ve ever ignored?
I have often been told to be not so over the top and bubbly with my personality, but that makes me who I am and it drives me to create a better world for others.
What’s a completely useless or funny talent you have that you’re weirdly proud of?
I am double-jointed, which creeps some people out, but I think it’s cool.
Where to Watch, Uma on the Miss Universe Australia National Final
The Miss Universe Australia National Final is being broadcast live on Seven Network on August 26, 2026. The live red-carpet coverage will begin at 7:00pm AEST, followed by the National Final at 7:30pm AEST on 7plus. The program then airs on Channel Seven following The Front Bar.
