The first Miss Voluptuous International pageant, held in Nashville U.S., has crowned its queen and it is none other than Chermside beauty, Amber Jane Powson.
Ms Powson bested several gorgeous plus-size women and role models over 14UK/AU from all over the world, including U.S., Greece, Wales and Ireland, during the April competition. Country representatives competed in the following areas: Panel Style Interview (40%), Personal Introduction (10%), National Wear (25%) and Evening Gown/Formal Wear (25%).
The pageant, however, was also about showcasing how these women are making a difference in their communities. The 25-year-old is an advocate for mental health support, after having been diagnosed with Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD) and depression in 2017.
Ms Powson has been raising awareness about mental health and body positivity after she overcame her own struggles, including a previous attempt to take her own life. The young advocate decided to join Miss Voluptuous as she knows the platform will help reach more people to break down the stigma associated with mental health.
“Around 30% of young Australians say they’re extremely, or very, concerned about their body image. This creates a higher risk of anxiety, depression and other mental health problems,” Ms Powson said.
“Only with awareness and support about body positivity and mental health was I able to graduate with a university degree, while working a part time job at a hotel, acting as an extra on blockbuster film sets, and be a plus size runway and print model.”
Apart from her new achievement as Miss Voluptuous International, Ms Powson is also an ambassador for the Mental Health Foundation Australia and Women’s Mentoring Foundation.
“The advice I give during these talks includes having compassion for yourself like you do for those you love.
“I would never tell my own sister the things I tell myself. I would never say she is a waste of space – so why on earth did I say that to myself?
“I’ve had countless women around the world reach out to me lately after hearing this message and reminding them to be more compassionate to themselves and their bodies.
“I’m truly hoping to share this message as much as possible.
Natalie Carley, the Director of Miss Voluptuous Pageants, said that the candidates were judged not so much on their beautiful face but also on their “passion for making a difference, a willingness to work hard and a determination to be heard.”
Whilst a beauty contest, Miss Voluptuous is also focused on platforms, volunteerism, hard work and efforts to build confidence from within. The pageant is open to all ladies aged 18 and above, size 14+, married, divorced, single, with or without children.
Meanwhile, Ms Powson’s next public appearance will be on the runway for award-winning Australian Designer Sonia Stradiotto at the Spring Fashion Show on the 28th of September 2022 in aid of The Carers Foundation Australia.