13 July 2011 (Interview)

Emma Waldron won the title of Miss Ireland 2010 after beating off some stiff competition. Then, she competed against 120 other girls in China, for the title of Miss World 2010. She may have not won the coveted crown but she did get crowned Miss World Europe, which is no mean feat. We sat down and had a chat with the model to find out what it meant to her to represent Ireland on a world stage.

 

What did it mean to you to win Miss Ireland and then go on to Miss World?
Winning Miss Ireland was a life changing experience. Before I won, I was a 21-year-old college student hoping to be a primary school teacher, with dreams of eventually working in the UNESCO after a trip to New York. Travelling to China for a month with 120 strangers to compete for a single crown started my year's reign off with a bang. Not only that, but at the grand finale, I won the title of Miss World Europe and Miss World Talent - for playing the violin- and came 4th in the world. That was just incredible.

What have you done since?
Since Miss Ireland, I was offered a contract with Ford in New York, designing a jewellery collection and collaborating with my boyfriend and software developer partner to create a bespoke website which will be live very soon. I have been saying that for a while, but this time I mean it!!

What opportunities have come your way from winning the title?
Well, I was so involved in Ozanam House, a youth group run by the Saint Vicent de Paul. I wanted to change the role of Miss Ireland to one that makes an impact on the lives of the marginalised in our society. So this year I've helped raise money for them through the Mini Marathon, the Annual Appeal and a reality show, which will air in August. I hope that it has inspired people to get involved in a local youth groups and community organisations. I also hope that the future Miss Ireland's will try to use their platform for others too....

What made you enter the competition?
I was asked to enter the competition only a few days before the final and it was a very last minute decision. I hadn't told any of my friends because I didn't imagine I would get very far. That night seems like so long ago now.

What advice would you give anyone going in for the competition?
I definitely think if you want to take part you have to be quite strong and willing to give 100%. Someone who likes to sleep or complain won't get on well at Miss World. It's a tough competition, you get very little sleep and you always have to be happy, even if you have had only had 2 or 3 hours sleep. For me, I'm a naturally happy person so it was ok. I found it quite difficult at times to be in the public eye. I have been so lucky with journalists in general, but it makes you quite self conscious. It makes you strong though, too. I have learned not to listen to what people say and to listen to my heart and my head. I think that no matter what career you pursue, or what your path in life is, this is a great lesson to learn.

What's next for you?
I will be heading back to college next year, juggling my modelling and also building up my show reel with Style Nation and other ventures. I think once that's over I'll go to America and pursue presenting. I have some great contacts there who have been trying to persuade me to come over sooner, but I value and know the importance of an education (I'm starting to sound like my Mom!) but it's true. The arts industry is a difficult one to break and your luck can be short-lived. I'm teaching 6th class now in September, which I am dying for. I've really had an incredible year and I am so grateful to have been given this chance.

**

Emma is preparing to hand over her crown to the new Miss Ireland 2011. The Launch of the pagent took place last night and we have lot's of photos from the party in Caught Out.
 

Back to Other Exclusives