Eighteen-year-old Zoe Place from Sarina has made a remarkable entrance into the world of modelling, not just for her stunning appearance, but for her kind heart to help others.
After starting her journey in 2023 with Brooke-Lee Modelling in Mackay, Zoe has quickly established herself as a young woman of talent, most recently taking home the title of second runner-up at the Miss Teen of Australia competition during the Australia’s Royalty Pageant National Finals in Melbourne.
The three-day event featured an intense schedule that included training, rehearsals, photoshoots, interviews and the finals - where the winners were announced.
Zoe, reflecting on the experience, said “it was so much fun and it was such a supportive environment…even when I was crying, everyone was cheering me on and encouraging me.
“Everyone was just so amazingly supportive.”
In addition to the runner-up position, Zoe was also recognised for her online presence, winning the Social Media Award.
Though Zoe’s modelling career is still in its early stages, her accomplishments have already brought her widespread support from her hometown of Sarina and the wider Mackay region.
“I was so proud of myself,” she said.
“I had everyone supporting me from Sarina and Mackay, and it was just a really good experience.”
Her love for bright lights and big stages was initially sparked in the world of dance, however she later discovered a new way to express herself through Brooke Lee Modelling & Deportment School.
In her spare time, when she isn’t modelling, Zoe returns to her roots as a dancer and continues to spread mental health awareness. She aims to use her platform to raise awareness and help others, including children, women and men struggling with mental health challenges.
“I’ve chosen this platform because it just means so much to me,” Zoe shared.
“I’ve struggled with anxiety and depression since I was two, and I’ve really wanted to get my voice out and help other people that struggle so much with it.”
Her advice to those considering modelling is “if you want to go out and do it, you just have to do it.
“You need to push yourself and just get on that stage and once you get on that stage, you find so much comfort.”
For Zoe, raising awareness about mental health remains a personal mission. She believes it is essential to speak openly about anxiety and the challenges it presents.
“Anxiety is not an easy thing to deal with, and it can traumatise you to the point where you can’t leave the house,” she noted.
“But you can push through it…you just have to push yourself.”
Zoe Place, 18, a model from Sarina, earned second runner-up at Miss Teen of Australia as she boosts her confidence and advocates for mental health. Photos supplied