Dana Diamataris, loves a new challenge any opportunity she gets.
“Why should you stop challenging yourself at any point in your life? Why not continue to do it again and again, to continue to grow?” she asks.
With this mindset she’s returning for another go as State Finalist for Miss Universe Australia 2025.
A second shot
After being invited back to the competition, the Greek Australian contestant from Melbourne expresses a newfound confidence.
“My goal this year is to say ‘Yes’ to every opportunity that comes my way,” Dana says to Neos Kosmos, ahead of the Victoria State Finals on Saturday 29 March.
Reflecting on her journey since last year’s competition, she says, “I’m more sure of who I am as a person than ever now, and I feel I’ll be able to take that confidence with me throughout the programme.”
Miss Universe Australia was she saysn an eye-opening experience, not just because of the competition and due to the inspiring women she has met along the way, and the friendships she has made.
“You don’t get to be a part of a programme like this every day… the opportunities for self-development and being surrounded by so many different women as well, and hearing their stories. It’s inspiring,” she says.
A year of growth
Since her last appearance in the competition, Dana has achieved multiple accomplishments. She is most proud of being admitted into Law, another career opportunity to consider, as she continues her Master’s in Education, all while working.
Saying ‘Yes’ to challenges has allowed her to make the most of every experience. This perspective is particularly powerful given her history. Dana has been open about her struggles with mental health, including an eating disorder that overshadowed her self-acceptance when she was younger.
“In those dark days, I never really appreciated who I was,” she admits.
Now, she hopes to use her platform to help others who might be facing similar battles. “To show that people like me—who I consider an everyday Australian woman—can overcome it, and I think it’s about giving those people a platform to refer to and use as inspiration to come out better on the other end.”
Winning may not be the goal, it would mean that she can be a voice for them. Reflecting on the difficult years, Dana acknowledges that she will always carry them with her.
“Everything that has happened to me up until this point has set me up for this moment.
“It’s a matter of using all the tools in my tool belt to just showcase who I am, not only in Miss Universe Australia, but to everyone in my world, in my proximity.”
Dana sees the challenges that come with competing in a pageant.
“Being surrounded by so many incredibly beautiful and intelligent women, it’s hard not to compare yourself. But having dealt with mental health issues in the past, I am able to challenge my own beliefs in the most positive way possible, and really show that I have grown from when I was at my lowest, embracing my self-confidence, my unique qualities and sharing that with everyone.”
Dana knows what to expect, and she wants to enjoy the experience and get as much out of it as she can.
Miss Universe Australia Dana says is about more than just physical appearance. “The judges, I believe, are looking at how we present not only ourselves, but our values. I think they know who to pick out of a crowd and who really embodies their beliefs.”
Beauty cannot be measured she says, “I think beauty is subjective. It is in the eye of the beholder. And beauty can be found in absolutely anything and everyone around us. You’ve just got to have open eyes and heart to be able to see it.”
Raised in a Greek Australian family, Dana attributes much of her strength to her upbringing.
“My parents have always taught me to stand on my own. My dad has always been quite vocal, loud, and vibrant… I’m not shy to say that that has rubbed off on me. And my mum also, she has a heart of gold. She is kind, caring, and empathetic.”
Dana believes that these qualities, rooted in her upbringing, have made her the person she is today, giving her the strength and confidence to embrace every opportunity life throws at her.
Fundraising for ToyBox Australia
Dana is using her platform to give back. Miss Universe Australia contestants are encouraged to support ToyBox Australia, a charity dedicated to supporting sick and disadvantaged children. Dana is hosting a Mat Pilates Class by the Bay on 15 March, with proceeds going toward the cause. Additionally, she has set up an online fundraising link, working toward her goal of $4,000.
For those who wish to support her fundraiser, donations can be made here.
