‘It’s not a pageant, it’s empowerment’: Miss Multicultural NT launched

In a series of events, the founder of Miss Multicultural NT said she hopes to encourage lasting inspiration and community change.

Lee Plowman is the founder of the event Miss Multicultural NT empowering women and celebrating diversity in Darwin. Photo: Lee Plowman

At first glance, the series of events for the Miss Multicultural NT 2025 might squeal beauty pageant.

But despite the numerous pink undertones, sashes and glittering crowns, founder Lee Plowman says the transformation and celebration is much deeper.

“It’s a movement that blends culture confidence and leadership into a transformational pageant experience,” she said.

“Unlike a traditional beauty contest, Miss Multicultural NT is not about looks, it’s about empowerment and personal growth.”

Over the next few months, 21 finalists from diverse backgrounds from Darwin and across the NT will be encouraged to celebrate and share their culture, skills and passion for their communities in a series of showcases.

Miss Plowman said along the way they would also benefit from leadership and personal development training.

The first event, High Tea for High-Value Women, is being held at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Darwin on Sunday, September 14.

Lee Plowman said it was her own journey as a migrant in Darwin that inspired the founding of Miss Multicultural NT. Photo: Lee Plowman

While attendees sip and munch on “premium” High Tea, Miss Plowman said they could enjoy watching mini talent showcases and cultural performances from finalists and celebrate local leaders.

In October, there will also be a Miss Body Confidence Beach Party before the big showcase and crowning of Miss Multicultural NT 2025 on November 30.

Miss Multicultural NT 2025 when a fashion show and personal transformation collide

As a migrant herself, Ms Plowman said there were times when she felt lost and unsure of her future when she moved to Darwin in 2015.

When she started training in personal development, Ms Plowman said she wanted to become a coach and to help others through that uncertainty.

She started doing confidence and leadership workshops for migrants through the Australian Red Cross program Connected Women and also trained as a hypnotherapist.

Ms Plowman said her highlight was always seeing the long-term change her roles could bring.

“I’ve seen people – when they break through – they change.

“I love personal transformation, because I was on that journey. And even now I don’t stop.”

Wanting to help others by combining the confidence of feeling glamorous on stage and lasting personal transformation, she decided to launch Miss Multicultural NT 2025.

“It combines personal transformation and fashion show,” she said.

“It’s not just a one time show but it’s a pathway for women to become leaders and role models.”

To those who are considering buying a ticket, Ms Plowman promised they would not be disappointed.

“Have a try and experience it for yourself because I can assure you that it will have the best empowerment experience that you have seen in Darwin yet,” she said.

To find out more about Miss Multicultural NT or to get tickets to any of the events, click here.

Originally published as ‘It’s not a pageant, it’s empowerment’: Miss Multicultural NT launched