“My goal this year is to say ‘Yes’ to every opportunity that comes my way,” Dana Diamataris told Neos Kosmos in March, ahead of the Miss Universe Australia Victoria State Finals.
Saying ‘Yes’ launched the Greek Australian from Melbourne into new experiences and meaningful connections.
Dana and 29 other National Finalists prepare for the Miss Universe Australia Final at the Crown in Perth on Friday, August 15. On this journey are two more contestants of Greek heritage. Nasia Delis from Melbourne and Bianca Black from the Gold Coast.
“It’s been such a whirlwind. I can’t believe we’re at the pointy end of it all, but I’m very excited. I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t a little bit nervous, but I’m excited to get to Perth and get the show on the road.”
In May, the finalists traveled to Vietnam for a week of intensive training.
“What I found most invaluable was the NIDA workshop, where we got to learn how to speak confidently and really embrace our own voice in a public sense.
“That kind of skill will not only help me throughout the Miss Universe Australia program, but in my day-to-day life as a teacher or as a lawyer or in my future endeavours to become a TV presenter.”
The one thing that sets Miss Universe Australia apart, Dana continues, is that they really foster an environment where we can create friendships and connections with everyone. The girls that are part of the competition, but also the mentors and the sponsors.”
Being among such beautiful and accomplished women can bring self-doubt.
Dana said that in all stages of this competition she has to remind herself that she was “selected for a reason”.
“As incredible and hard working as each and every woman is in this program, we all have something different to offer.
They all hail from “different backgrounds” have, “different careers” and Dana adds, “I guess that’s what makes us all unique”.
“I’ve been trying to embrace my Greek culture as much as I can, but also put on display my skills and education and really harness that.”
Dana said she wants to be focuses on “staying true, authentic, and kind”.
“This competition has shown me that I can do anything I set my mind to. It’s all about knowing your ‘why’, knowing your purpose, and going after it.”
Dana is studying and working full-time and by her own account is “a chronic planner”.
On reflection the most memorable moments of her journey include the visit to Hearing & Beyond, a school in Vietnam they raised money for.
“We spent the day with the children and learned to sign, which was heartwarming and rewarding. I also got to spend a day with children receiving treatment for cancer or for illness.
“We entertained the kids and tried to give them a sense of normalcy.”
She also “loved doing outreach work as part of the program”.
The swimwear shoot in Vietnam was out of her comfort zone, “but I loved every second of it”.
Dana said she wants to give a voice to the “eating disorder community” she wants to “address taboo subjects and help battle mental health stigma”.
“We live in a society where a lot of life is filtered and you only really see a highlight reel of people’s lives. I want to show that life is about encompassing the good, the bad and everything in between.
“It’s about being your true, authentic self, but showing that you can have goals and drive and ambition too.”
In terms of advice to aspiring contestants, Dana says that they should “just do it”.
“Embrace the opportunity for what it is with a positive attitude. You’ll be in for the absolute ride of your life. And it’s an incredibly life changing experience.”
Her family will be by Dana’s side, her parents are making the journey over to Perth to watch the final as well. “They’re very supportive. They’re helping me at home prepare and giving me critiques.”
“They’re my ultimate hype crew. My grandparents, are also very excited.”
