Selina McCloskey is not your average pageant queen. At just 23 years old, this Newcastle local has been crowned Miss International Australia 2024, and her journey to the crown is anything but ordinary. With a mix of grit, passion, and a relentless drive to make a difference, Selina’s story is one you need to know. Here’s why she’s not just breaking the mould—she’s redefining it.
1. Her Early Education Was Unconventional
Selina’s educational journey kicked off in a way that might surprise you. She went to preschool with kids who were deaf and blind—even though she had both her sight and hearing! Why? Because her parents wanted her to learn empathy and gratitude from a young age. Spoiler: it worked. Selina grew up with a deep appreciation for inclusivity, and that early experience taught her to embrace every moment with humility and determination.
2. She’s a Total Academic
It didn’t stop there. Selina landed an academic scholarship at Macquarie College, where she smashed her studies and dominated the basketball court. This girl had game—so much so that she ended up playing college basketball in Texas and Kansas. And guess what? It was there she honed that killer competitive spirit and leadership style that would shape her future success, both on and off the court.
3. Double Distinction? Oh, She Did That!
Selina didn’t just dabble in academics; she crushed it. She graduated with double distinction—a rare achievement only two students in her year managed to pull off. She earned a Bachelor of Business in Innovation and Entrepreneurship, showing that she’s not just beauty and brains but also a force to be reckoned with in the business world. Talk about a triple threat!
4. She Walked 600+ Kilometres… Because She Cares That Much
Let’s talk about commitment. Selina walked over 600 kilometres (yes, you read that right!) to raise awareness for breast and brain cancer. Her dedication to the cause aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal #5: gender equality and women’s empowerment. Clearly, she’s not just talking the talk; she’s literally walking the walk.
5. Volunteering With a Mission: Dress for Success
Selina’s not just about raising awareness; she’s all about action. She’s a volunteer with Dress for Success, a charity that helps women get back into the workforce with style advice, confidence-boosting workshops, and résumé makeovers. She’s passionate about breaking down barriers for women everywhere—one outfit and one confidence boost at a time.
6. Fashion Is Her Playground—and Her Platform for Change
Selina doesn’t just wear clothes; she owns them. A regular competitor at Fashions on the Field, she’s known for her unique style and confidence. But for Selina, fashion is more than just looking fabulous. It’s a way to express herself, inspire confidence in others, and advocate for the causes she’s passionate about. She’s turned the runway into a platform for change—literally.
7. She’s Using Pageants to Amplify Her Voice
Selina started competing in pageants to amplify her advocacy work, and it’s been a game-changer. Miss International is only her third pageant ever, and guess what? She nailed it. Winning the crown is more than a personal victory; it’s proof that she’s using every opportunity to push her message of gender equality and women’s empowerment to new heights.
8. Selina Is a Role Model in the Making
Selina McCloskey is all about redefining what it means to be a leader today. She’s empathetic, resilient, and fiercely determined to make a positive impact. Whether she’s raising awareness for important causes, excelling academically, or turning heads with her unique fashion sense, she’s doing it all with purpose.
9. She’s Got Big Plans—and an Even Bigger Heart
What’s next for Selina? She’s got her sights set on using her platform as Miss International Australia 2024 to continue fighting for gender equality and empowering women worldwide. Her vision is clear: champion the causes she cares about, promote equality, and inspire others to dream big.
The Bottom Line: Selina McCloskey Is One to Watch!
With her drive, her vision, and her unapologetic passion for change, Selina McCloskey is a powerhouse on the rise. Keep an eye on this space because she’s just getting started—and she’s already making waves both here in Australia and around the globe.