Miss Universe Singapore 2016: Sonya Branson
Sonya is trained in piano and classical singing, and also enjoys travelling, reading and dancing in her free time.
Passionate about special needs children, she has an honours degree in psychology from the University of Western Australia in Perth.
She said: "Therapy has been found to limit the deleterious effects of disorders of special needs children by improving social interaction, IQ and language abilities, giving these children a chance at a better life."
What is one cause you would champion if you become Miss Universe Singapore 2016?
The pageant could be an effective platform to advocate change in early intervention policies for children suffering from behavioural and learning difficulties, such as autism. This is especially for conditions where these early support systems are very crucial.
Which influential living person would you like to meet?
The Pope. I would like to know his views on women playing a greater role in the clergy - perhaps even becoming priests - and whether it might happen during his papacy.
What is one food you cannot resist?
Chicken rice - almost all my cheat meals consist of that. There is something about eating rice that I find very comforting.
What is the biggest challenge that women face today?
It's appalling that women still have to fight for equal rights and deal with issues such as the gender wage gap and the subtle sexism that creeps into everyday language. We still have a long way to go to achieve true equality.
You have a musical background. What's your favourite song to perform?
Musical theatre is my favourite genre. I was particularly moved by I Dreamed A Dream from my favourite musical Les Miserables. I almost teared while performing it for one of my vocal exams.
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