Miss Universe Singapore 2018: Modelling helped Mohanaprabha boost self-confidence
Mohanaprabha
Student, 23
Since joining modelling competition The New Paper New Face last year, Miss Mohanaprabha has signed up with Upfront Models and believes her modelling stint has given her a boost of confidence and the ability to express her personality more in poses during shoots.
The 23-year-old student - who stands at 1.75m and is the tallest Miss Universe Singapore 2018 finalist - is pursuing a biomedical science degree at PSB Academy.
She has also learnt to become more independent ever since her mother fell into severe depression. During this time, her father has been her mentor. To shoulder some of her father's burden, she has taken on household chores such as sewing and cooking.
If you could change anything in this world, what would it be?
I wish for the world to embrace gender equality and empower women, as we can be as capable and as strong as men.
It is a patriarchal perspective not to recognise this. With equality for both sexes, only then can there be more opportunities for women. I also wish for the human race to be kinder and more respectful towards the environment.
What is the most interesting thing about yourself, and how does this set you apart from the other contestants?
Growing up, I was the slowest in school. I was always the last student to submit my homework, and I was lagging behind most of my peers. But my primary school teacher pointed out that even though I may not be as quick or bright as my classmates, I am hard-working and I have never once neglected the quality of my work.
I wish for the world to embrace gender equality and empower women, as we can be as capable and as strong as men.
So I think what sets me apart is my drive and determination. Failure every now and then is perfectly okay if it provides a way for you to improve in the long run.
Who are your personal icons of beautiful and empowered women?
I admire Mother Teresa, Princess Diana and activist Malala Yousafzai. These women were strong and determined to make a change for what they believed in. They used their voices to reach out to others.
What sets me apart is my drive and determination. Failure every now and then is perfectly okay if it provides a way for you to improve in the long run.
Ms Malala used her voice to fight for women's rights in education which almost cost her her life but that did not silence her. Instead, it motivated her even further.
If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go?
I would love to challenge myself and travel to either the North or South Pole. It will be a true test of endurance and of mental, emotional and physical strength, and it will be the best experience gained.
What is the biggest disappointment in your life and how did you overcome it?
When I did myself the disservice of listening to what naysayers said behind my back. I grew up struggling with my body image and it came to a point where it affected my confidence so deeply that I started to believe that maybe the mean things being said were true.
It came across in how I portrayed myself and I made a mental note that perhaps if I faked my confidence, it will be the solution to my insecurities. However, I have matured and learnt to embrace myself and be more comfortable in my own skin.
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