Victorian contender takes out Miss Universe Australia
She’d never even entered a pageant before, but a young Victorian woman has swept the competition to be crowned Miss Universe Australia.
Confidential
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Victorian beauty Priya Serrao says her shock win as Miss Universe Australia 2019 is a nod for diversity.
Born in India, the 26 year-old political adviser with the state government, has no previous modelling or pageant experience.
She hailed her crowning as beginners’ luck.
“I honestly just entered, part of it was the experience to be see what it would be like,” Serrao said.
“No I’ve definitely had no experience with pageants or in the modeling world.
“I’m quite nerdy and have a 9-5 job and this is the other end of spectrum.
“I didn’t even think... oh man I can’t believe I’m here.”
“I don’t know what to tell work,” she said.
“They will know when they see me on TV. I honestly just entered, part of it was experience to see what it would be like. I didn’t even think … oh man I can’t believe I’m here.”
Serrao said it meant a lot to share the stage with runner-up Bella Kasimba, an Australian-Ugandan.
“We were just whispering words of encouragement to each other,” she said.
“Regardless of who wins, the fact that two women of colour were up on stage as two finalists is absolutely incredible.
“I just want to see more diversity in all aspects. Media, politics you name it.
“That’s why I’m surprised someone who looks like me has a position like this. I couldn’t be more proud of the Miss Universe organization.”
“One of the main reasons I entered Miss Universe Australia was because the titleholder has an opportunity to advocate on issues to a large, global audience. As my family migrated to Australia, I am an avid supporter of diversity in our society whether it be in media, politics or business.”
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Serrao works for the Department of Jobs, Precincts and Regions, and will be a qualified lawyer in August.
She has lived in India, Oman and Dubai and moved to Australia when she was 11. She had also worked in East Timor through her legal studies.
She said she didn’t even invite her family to the event at the Sofitel Melbourne on Collins as she didn’t think she was a chance to claim victory.
“I thought it’d be sad they’d see me not make it and they’d miss out,” she said.
“I like a dance but I also like to go to sleep by 10pm. It’s way past my bed time.”
The 28 finalists for Miss Universe Australia spent the day busily preparing for tonight’s crowning event at the Sofitel Melbourne on Collins.
Seven Victorians were in the running last night.
The final was hosted by comedian Ash Williams and former Miss Universe Australia Olivia Wells.
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