Finding a balance between the things we must do, and the things we want to do, can be tough.
For Hannah Ho (18), Second Princess and Best Dressed winner, the balance seems to come naturally. Taking part in the Lions Miss Newcastle 2013 competition was a new experience for the elegant and poised young woman, who describes herself as simple and “plain Jane”.
“I am not the glitz and glam type of girl. My mom encouraged me to take part,” said Ms Ho. “For me it was a huge leap of faith. I never saw myself taking part in a competition like this,” she added.
Taking part in the Miss Newcastle event can be very time consuming and arduous but, the competition has taught Hannah many things about herself and to believe in her own abilities.
“I had to find a balance between school and the competition. I was writing exams and had to study throughout,” she said. “It was very difficult to find time for everything.”
Academically driven, Hannah is still choosing between a career in medicine or hotel management.
“As a young girl I played with those magnetic toys with the different body parts. I am really interested in the human body and the way it works. That’s why I feel a career in medicine would be great,” she explained.
After the event, Hannah has decided that modelling could be a viable option for her, something she previously never would have considered.
“I see myself as a very simple girl. I was so surprised that I won Best Dressed. My dress was so simple and I did all my own make up,” she said. “I have found my own uniqueness. I feel that every girl has to find themselves.”
Throughout the competition, Hannah had a lot of support from her mother, Judy, who was there every step of the way.
“At times it was all very overwhelming. I just want to thank the Lions Club members, my family, especially my mom, and my friends, my sponsor, Rawson Properties. Also big thanks to Fancy That Models, Elle Studio, Edu Centre and all my fellow contestants,” said Hannah. “And I must say thank you to the judges, who believed in me.”
Hannah takes away a profound feeling of achievement.
“Beauty isn’t in the appearance. Beauty is within. Your attitude can make you beautiful,” she concluded.
