Whenever someone brings up women who contest in pageants, there is always this sort of stereotype that comes with it, where they are looked at as a little air-headed or fake.
I, too, have been guilty of this sentiment whenever it came to the topic of Miss Universe Singapore; often agreeing with the stereotypes put forth by others and not really noticing that these women have actually accomplished more I ever would just by their participation.
With the finals of Miss Universe Singapore 2024 just a few days away, I spoke with three former beauty queens — Zahra Khanum (2018), Bernadette Belle Ong (2020), and Carissa Yap (2022)— who made me realise that there was more to this pageant.
Even after all the criticisms they had received during their time in the competition, there was a shared consensus that participating had only changed their life for the better; giving them the opportunity to make friends and bond in a like-minded sisterhood while also moulding each of them into a stronger and more confident woman.
Above: BERNADETTE BELLE ONG Photographed by ADELE CHAN.
Hi Queens! Could you share with us what you have been doing since your reign as Miss Universe Singapore?
Zahra: “I have been dedicated to expanding my talents in the field of education that has been driven by a lifelong passion for working with children. Inspired by my own teachers, I aspire to play a pivotal role in shaping young minds and building their potential, as I believe in nurturing their confidence, help them recognise their strengths, and guide them to improve their weaknesses.
In today’s fast-paced and sometimes unforgiving world, it is essential for young learners to be equipped not only with academic skills, but also with the resilience and adaptability they need to thrive. My goal is to create an environment where children feel empowered to explore their capabilities and face challenges head-on, and to prepare them for a successful future.”
Bernadette: “After Miss Universe, I’ve been doing freelance work in a creative capacity and have helped to manage brand campaigns for names like YSL and Dior. I’ve also started DJ-ing for public events like the Formula One Night Race and Crypto events, done modelling for TV and print, and currently run my own sustainable jewelry line called Cora Collect.”
Carissa: “In the day, I work as a Banker within Securities Finance, driven by my interest in financial inclusion and digital assets. I spend majority of my time with industry mentors and peers developing products within the financial markers. I’m excited for the future of our progress with the rise of digitisation and hope to move towards financial inclusion and mobility.
As someone who loves creative work, I have also modelled for Fashion and Beauty brands, and worked on social media campaigns with them to effectively bring a message across to our audience. Being able to connect with like-minded individuals constantly motivates me and has inspired me to continue this journey.
Using my voice and inspiring my audience, across both roles, is often what I find most enjoyable.“
ABOVE: ZAHRA KHANUM PHOTOGRAPHED BY ADELE CHAN.
What have you learned or gained from participating in Miss Universe Singapore?
Z: “I have experienced significant personal growth, particularly in building my confidence and enhancing my lifestyle. Having engaged with diverse groups of people has opened my eyes to the bigger picture of life, instilling in me a sense of higher purpose and a deeper understanding of the world around me.
Through these experiences, I’ve learned to stand up for myself and effectively engage with others. I’ve come to realise that the world extends far beyond Singapore, and I have the power to make a difference through my voice and the small steps I take each day.
Participating in platforms like Miss Universe Singapore has reinforced the importance of community and the need to uplift those who often go unheard. It has taught me that life is richer when we recognise something greater than ourselves, and that true meaning lies in our connections with others.”
C: “Participating in Miss Universe Singapore has taught me that it takes courage to be different. Having to step out of my comfort zone and being in the spotlight has made me realise the need to use our voices for good and to make an impact in our own unique ways. The entire experience has instilled a great sense of self-confidence in me as I now have a deeper understanding of my role to play and of the community.
Engaging in dialogue with the diverse connections l’ve made has been one of the biggest takeaways too, as I’m constantly inspired hearing from people coming from all walks of life.”
ABOVE: CARISSA YAP PHOTOGRAPHED BY ADELE CHAN.
Compared with the former regulations, what are your thoughts on the new requirements set for the 2024 batch?
Z: “I genuinely believe that the inclusivity of this year’s pageant is a positive one as this approach is a more wholesome choice. It empowers women — whether they are single, married, divorced — to pursue their passions and advocate for their causes and community.
I’m encouraged to see a diminishing stigma around diverse groups of women and identities, all of whom possess the ability to raise their voices and effect change. Every woman should have the opportunity to embark on this journey and be given an equal chance to shine on this platform.”
B: “For me, I think it’s rearing its head towards more progressive values because women are doing so many things now despite their age, and Miss Universe Singapore is a platform that they any woman can tap on to gain an intangible experience to build friendships and make memories with.”
C: “I always think of the Miss Universe Singapore platform as a celebration of diversity and of the many roles a woman can play in life.
The new requirements exactly encapsulates this as it allows women of all ages and backgrounds to participate and advocate for the causes close to heart. This change is definitely a forward-looking one I welcome wholeheartedly as it enforces the message that it’s never too late to start and that your past doesn’t define you.“
ABOVE: BERNADETTE BELLE ONG PHOTOGRAPHED BY ADELE CHAN.
What do you think of the current mix of finalists?
Z: “I find them to be a unique, mature, and exceptionally talented group of women. They are articulate and ambitious, and I have truly enjoyed engaging in conversation with them. I am very hopeful that they will represent Singapore well. I was genuinely impressed by their advocacies and the potential they have to effect positive change for the communities they have chosen to work with. I am very sure whoever the winner is will do Singapore proud.”
B: “Without the limitations, I can’t even tell who has been divorced or who’s older (laughs). And I think that comes favourable to us Asians. It means that at any age, the finalists can take care of themselves really well and present themselves amongst anybody, even those on an international stage.”
C: “It has been inspiring to hear the stories behind the advocacies that these women stand for. Each of them is unique in their own ways and seeing how they support each other brings back many fond memories of my time during the competition.
All of them perfectly embody what it means to be a modern woman to pursue their goals and at the same time use their voices for good to make an impact on their community.“
ABOVE: CARISSA YAP PHOTOGRAPHED BY ADELE CHAN.
Any sisterly advice for the finalists as they head into the finals this Sunday?
Z: “Be yourself and enjoy this journey. Make your presence known and embrace your confidence. Share your authentic self and your beliefs — don’t be afraid to stand out. There’s no need to follow a specific narrative; just focus on being genuine and have fun.
Also, make sure to rest well before the competition and find grounding activities that help you stay centred as you approach the finals. Speak from your heart and remember to be true to yourself. Good luck to all of you! At the end of the day, you are all winners!”
B: “Just have a good time because when you’re not having a good time and you’re stuck in your head, it actually shows up, especially on stage. Celebrate the fact that you’ve made it up to the finals and you’ve carried the entire program till that point.
It’s a very select experience that not a lot of people can have and everybody’s rooting for everybody. Letting go of any expectation will make you shine brighter on stage.”
C: “With the finals just round the corner, I think it’s important to calm your nerves by showing up as your most authentic self — staying true to my core beliefs and values was what helped me during the finals.
It is most important to not let the stress get to you as well. Also, when you visualize that winning feeling, you’ll feel less anxious!
I think it’s impressive that all the finalists have made it thus far and they should be proud of themselves and celebrate this beautiful memory.“
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