Pageant queen a vision of empowered womanhood
Amy Bushell was announced Miss Newcastle 2013 in November.
Lions Miss Newcastle 2013, Amy Bushell believes she can change the general perception of beauty pageants.
Exuding confidence and magnifying the virtues of empowered womanhood, the reigning Miss Newcastle was crowned almost 30 years after her aunt, Lynn Bushell was a finalist in the same pageant.
Amy admitted she could not accurately describe her feelings at winning the pageant.
“It is incredible – the excitement of the night, the build-up and the bright lights.”
Congratulating every other contestant, Amy said she never expected to be crowned Miss Newcastle, although she was pleased her hard work throughout finally paid off.
The experience, she added, was one of the most exciting journeys of her life.
Apart from good eating habits and regular exercise, Amy said her personal growth stood to reason she could not have prepared better for the pageant finale.
With the title, her most important task is becoming a role model.
“This is not only a beauty pageant; I am an ambassador and will be involved in as many projects as possible.”
Her passion lies particularly with children.
“I have completed my studies and am currently working at Newcastle Senior Primary School as a Grade 3 teacher.”
She will also pursue honours and masters degrees in psychology and educational psychology respectively, with a focus on early childhood development and projects associated with children.
Amy also listed these upcoming studies as one of her hobbies and interests.
“My hobbies are exercise and taking care of myself. I am into fashion, a cliché, specifically fashion blogs and keeping up with current trends.”
Amy values learning from the experience of others.
Reading about empowered women was important to her, Amy explained, as she derived strength and wisdom from history’s heroines.
However, her greatest inspirations in life are a little closer to home.
“My mother, Debbie Bester, is a huge inspiration because she is strong, honest and truthful to herself.”
Amy also admires the iconic American actress, singer and model, Marilyn Monroe for her part in transforming the perception of women in society and inspiring them to be strong and live life with integrity.
Amy added her own personal goal was to look back on her life and have shown bravery in the face of fear.
“I encourage women to get involved with the Miss Newcastle pageant, and grow in confidence.”
In her message to the community, Amy thanked all her supporters and said she was looking forward to making a difference in the community in the coming year.
She applauded the support from her family and friends throughout.
“My mother encouraged me to follow my dreams. My brother, Paul is a huge fan and one of my role models.”
In conclusion, Amy thanked Barbara Elliot, her sponsor from Qualitas Career Academy, Rob and Christine Harburn and the Lions women for putting the pageant together, and her family and friends for unconditional love and support.
“All the Miss Newcastle contestants are deserving and I never expected to win.”
