At just 14 years old, Jennifer-Lee Houseman is showing that regional youth can lead with talent, creativity, and compassion. Whether she’s flipping on horseback, striking a pose in front of the camera, or rallying support for sick kids, Jennifer-Lee is making her mark across multiple fields, including sport, fashion, and community service.
Since joining Sarina Christian Vaulting in February, the Mackay teen has soared to success in equestrian vaulting, earning podium finishes in both barrel and horseback divisions. At her first-ever competition, the Interschool State Championships in Toowoomba, she placed second in both events.
Shortly after, she went on to claim first place in both her individual divisions and first in her squad compulsories at the Queensland State Championships.
“We barely had space to put all the awards in the car,” she laughed.
Despite limited experience with horses, Jennifer-Lee adapted quickly to different competition mounts, many of which were larger than the ones she trains on.
“I had like five minutes on the horse just to get used to her… they walk differently because they’re bigger.”
Vaulting, she says, has given her a rare kind of freedom.
“It’s the first time I’ve felt free… I can show my personality while doing something I love, with animals, dance, and acro all combined.”
Jennifer-Lee is now preparing to represent Queensland at the National Vaulting Championships in Sydney this October, proudly flying the flag for Mackay.
That same month, she will head to Melbourne as a finalist in the Ultimate International Miss of Australia pageant, a national platform that celebrates confidence, kindness, and leadership.
Winners will represent Australia at the international event in the United States in 2026, though the opportunity hinges on her family’s pending permanent residency application.
“It’s a lot… we’ve emigrated from South Africa, so it’s tougher for us, but we don’t want to tame this achieving soul,” her mother said.
In addition to her pageant and vaulting achievements, Jennifer-Lee is a vibrant face in the local creative scene. She recently featured in PhotoSwap Mackay, a local photoshoot initiative that encourages self-expression and confidence.
“It was such a fun day,” she said.
“Everyone was so supportive.”
She will also feature in the upcoming Wear It Wild PhotoSwap at Cape Hillsborough, where wearable art, nature, and creativity collide.
"I'm making something awesome," she added.
One of Jennifer-Lee’s proudest achievements is The Tutu Challenge, a grassroots movement she started to raise funds for the Starlight Children’s Foundation.
“The Tutu Challenge started with a simple idea: wear a tutu, make someone smile. Now, it’s about making a real difference in the lives of kids in hospital.”
Her major 2025 fundraiser, TUTU’s Convoy for Charity, is set to take place in August and includes two fun-filled days: a Cars in Costume Scavenger Hunt on August 9, and a Bikes in Tutus Convoy on August 10.
The event will launch from Casu Jacks in Mackay, with mystery stops, music, and prizes for best dressed, most creative team, and wildest wheels. All participants will receive a limited edition 2025 Steel TUTU Badge.
“Come in your car. Come on your bike. Just come, and do it for the kids,” Jennifer-Lee says.
She is currently seeking sponsors to support her travel to both national competitions and help bring the Tutu Convoy to life. Businesses will receive recognition across events, social media, and press coverage.
To get involved, contact: missjlee.charity@gmail.com or follow her journey: @MissJLee – Ultimate International Miss Australia
“It doesn’t take much to make someone smile,” she says.
“Sometimes, all it takes is a tutu.”
At 14, Jennifer-Lee Houseman is excelling in vaulting, pageantry, and charity, inspiring her community through talent and kindness. Photos supplied
Jennifer-Lee Houseman with her recent equestrian vaulting trophies, earned at her first two major competitions. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
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