Mackay Woman Named National United Miss – Ms Queensland 25/26

A Mackay woman has made her way from silent battles to the international stage, transforming pain into purpose and self-doubt into a platform that now inspires women across the region and beyond.

Recently appointed National United Miss – Ms Queensland 25/26, Jenna will represent Australia at International United Miss in America this July, which she says is, “a dream come true.”

In October, she was crowned after applying online for a system that resonates with her mission, made up of “a strong sense of sisterhood.”

She kept the news private until receiving her sash and crown just four weeks ago, officially beginning her journey to the international stage.

“It’s so amazing that I get to do what I love – only now I get to do it on a bigger scale and make more of a global impact,” she said.

As the only Mackay entrant in her system heading to Florida, Jenna admits the honour is significant — but she is far from alone.

“The support is so, so tight — you would think that we were all sisters.”

Her rise has not come without hardship. From a young age, Jenna experienced bullying that deeply affected her confidence, self-love and sense of self-worth. She has faced both online and in-person bullying, even in recent times, but she refuses to let those voices define her.

“What defines me is how I choose to rise with heart, honesty, and a desire to help others do the same,” she said.

Through modelling and pageantry, Jenna rebuilt her confidence and learned to believe in herself again. That healing journey sparked her advocacy platform, Freedom to Flourish — a movement grounded in mindset, healing and permission to grow. It is a message for those carrying silent battles and anyone learning to love themselves again.

“Pageants and modelling really changed my life,” she said. “It’s life changing.”

Determined to create that same transformation for others, Jenna founded Beeyoutiful Charity Pageants, combining empowerment with purpose. The next event will be held on June 27, and will raise funds for HeartKids, supporting children and families impacted by childhood-onset heart disease. Entries are now open.

Through her platform, business and volunteer work, Jenna regularly connects with women navigating confidence struggles and self-doubt. By sharing her story openly, she hopes others feel seen, and brave enough to step forward.

Preparation for Florida is already underway, with a routine in place, public speaking training and a full-time coach.

But beyond crowns and competition, her mission is focused on reminding women they are worthy of space, healing and growth.

“Through this title and once in a lifetime opportunity, I hope to continue inspiring others who may be struggling with fear or the weight of others’ opinions, and remind them that they deserve the freedom to flourish.”

Businesses interested in sponsoring her international journey or supporting the June charity event can connect via Instagram at @nummsqueensland.

Mackay’s Jenna Kerschbaumer has been named National United Miss – Ms Queensland 25/26 and will represent Australia at International United Miss in America this July, using her platform Freedom to Flourish to inspire women to rise above bullying and self-doubt. Photos supplied