Daria Varlamova crowned Miss Universe Australia
Persistence has paid off for Victorian Daria Varlamova who has been crowned Miss Universe Australia after first trying out as a teen.
Confidential
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A Victorian has been crowned Miss Universe Australia for the third consecutive year after psychotherapy student Daria Varlamova won the title on Tuesday night.
The Russian born, former West Australian beauty was in shock while sitting in her Melbourne apartment as the national final was held virtually for the second straight year.
“I don’t think my heart has ever pounded so hard before,’’ she said.
“I feel incredibly shocked but grateful to be a Victorian girl sitting here.
“I said to all the Victorian girls, I said I’d just feel so proud for one of us. To be Miss Universe Australia has been a dream for so long.
“I’m in shock … so excited to get started and I’m lost for words, just so grateful for this opportunity.”
The past two Victorian winners were Maria Thattil in 2020 and Priya Serrao in 2019.
In her spare time Varlamova, 27, facilitates workshops for young girls, discussing topics such as mental wellness, friendships and gratitude. She is working towards her Masters of Counselling to become a psychotherapist and work in the mental health field.
“I want to continue to doing the thing I’ve been doing for so long — driving home my mental health message and it’s something I’ve been so passionate about,’’ she said.
“This title has opened so many doors. I want to delve into the field of presenting as well. What an honour to be Maria Thattil’s successor.”
Varlamova, a finalist and fourth runner-up last year, said the first thing she would do is call her grandmother in Russia.
“She’s been rooting for me so hard, she’s my favourite and her joy is my joy,’’ she said.
Varlamova moved to Australia at age eight and still speaks fluent Russia. She says she will travel to WA as soon as restrictions lift to see family.
At age 19 she was devastated when she tried out for the Miss Universe Australia program but didn’t make it through to the state final.
Persistence paid off as she triumphed in a field of 29 finalists, with Mia Brooks from New South Wales the runner-up.
Handing over the title, Thattil praised Varlamova as a worthy winner.
“I’ve said this to every woman in the program, it’s every woman’s journey but one woman’s destiny. Her time is now.
“Like every finalist, this woman deserves it. Her heart is empathetic, kind and compassionate. She is purpose driven and committed to her message. And overall, a beautiful representative for our country. I can’t wait to watch all that you do.”
The international Miss Universe final will be held in December in Israel.
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