Airlie Beach local Paitin Powell headed to this year’s Miss Grand Australia beauty pageant in Sydney in late July with one purpose: to show women from the Whitsundays that they can achieve international goals.
Representing Queensland in her Miss Grand debut – a competition similar to Miss Universe and Miss World - Paitin competed against 19 other finalists from across the country in a bid for the Australian title, and made it all the way to the final two.
“When Amber and I were called as the final two, I was so excited with how far I had come. I knew I would be grateful whatever the outcome,” Paitin said.
“When I started the competition, I said to myself: stay true to who you are and where you come from. I was the only North Queenslander, so it was important for me to promote the Whitsundays and North Queensland – I achieved that.”
Paitin placed second overall, being given the title of first runner-up – an accolade she was incredibly proud of.
“I am over the moon with that placing, especially considering this was my first time competing in this program,” Paitin said.
With the top two finish, Paitin gained not just experience, but a skincare ambassadorship with Defence Skin.
She plans to continue working alongside Miss Grand Australia and create awareness for Destiny Rescue – a charity she has already raised $2500 for in her Miss Grand Australia bid.
“I want to say a huge thank you to everyone that was a part of my journey and supported me and my fund raising,” Paitin said.
She plans to compete for the title of Miss Grand Australia 2023 next year.
Paitin Powell placed as first runner up in her debut at the Australian wide iteration of the Miss Grand beauty pageant
