By Amanda Wright
Alexis Versaci is turning heads in the Mackay community, combining her passion for modelling with a heart full of purpose as she prepares to take the pageant stage for the first time. As a rising star in her third year with Brooke Lee Modelling, Alexis is not only perfecting her runway walk but also making a statement with her dedication to philanthropy. Balancing grace with grit, she’s preparing for her next big move: competing in the Miss Diamond International and Miss Photogenic pageant double-header, where her passion for fashion meets her heart for giving back.
The Miss Diamond International pageant supports the #LoveYourOvaries campaign, which advocates for early detection of ovarian cancer and funds vital research. Ovarian cancer is often diagnosed too late, making it a deadly disease that affects thousands of women each year. Alexis, through her involvement, is helping to drive forward the campaign's goal to develop a much-needed early detection test.
Alexis has spent countless hours fundraising and volunteering. Inspired by her mother, Lisa, who has been a volunteer for many years, Alexis has embraced the spirit of giving from a young age. Together with Lisa, she regularly helps out at local charities, including Chances Café, where she recently donated much-needed food to support the growing homeless population.
She is also a dedicated volunteer with Orange Sky, serving breakfast to the less fortunate and taking part in the Sudsy Challenge for the third year in a row, a campaign where participants wear the same outfit for three days to raise awareness for homelessness.
She also filled a suitcase of essentials for the Hope in a Suitcase project, an initiative that supports children entering foster care by providing them with items that bring comfort and a sense of belonging.
Beyond her charity work, Alexis has been busy preparing for the pageant, balancing her Year 8 studies with her part-time job at her mother’s businesses, Cheeky Little Monkeys, Party Central and Harper Bee, which are part of ‘The Hive’ collective on Wood Street.
As a Tiny Tots teacher with Brooke Lee Modelling, Alexis has found a passion for mentoring younger children, helping them build confidence through fun and learning. This aligns perfectly with her own goals of stepping outside her comfort zone and trying something new.
"This is my first pageant, and I’m so excited about the opportunity.
“I can't wait to meet new people, and I think it will be a great experience," Alexis said.
"It’s completely different from anything I’ve done before, but that’s what makes it exciting."
The competition will take Alexis on an adventure to the Gold Coast.
“I think it’s going to be so much fun, and I’m really looking forward to meeting other girls my age and just enjoying the whole experience,” Alexis said.
With a heart as big as her ambitions, Alexis is proving that even the youngest members of our community can make a significant impact, one act of kindness at a time.
For those wanting to support Alexis in the Sudsy Challenge, donations can be made by visiting: www.thesudsychallenge.com.au/fundraisers/alexisversaci/24-four.