In the world of pageantry, where glitz and glamour often take center stage, Hannah Cross, a Tauranga artist and model, has emerged as a powerful force, using her platform to make a real difference. Cross, who recently placed first runner-up in the Miss Universe New Zealand final, is now a finalist once again, aiming to take the coveted title. But her journey has been far from ordinary, as she recently experienced a life-changing event that shifted her perspective on what it means to be a pageant ambassador.
During a runway show in the Philippines, where she was preparing for the Miss Asia Pacific International pageant, a 6.9-magnitude earthquake struck, catching her off guard. As she described it, "It was really scary." Caught in the midst of the chaos, Cross fell and twisted her ankle, but her injury didn't deter her from taking action. She was among the first to offer help, demonstrating her commitment to community service.
This experience made a profound impact on Cross, making her realize the fragility of life and the importance of giving back. She said, "These people who don’t have a lot to begin with now having lost everything... it was a moment that put everything in perspective to me that everything can change in a single moment."
Cross's passion for art and community service is deeply intertwined. She believes that art is a universal language that brings people together, and her pageantry mission reflects this. Her local charity work, including donations to the Waipuna Hospice and the Breast Cancer Foundation, showcases her dedication to making a positive impact. She even organized a charity art auction, raising over $2000 for the Breast Cancer Foundation.
However, her journey hasn't been without challenges. Cross is struggling to find sponsors for her pageant, highlighting the financial hurdles that many pageant participants face. She humorously invites businesses to support her, emphasizing her passion and creativity. Despite these challenges, her determination remains unwavering.
As a Miss Universe New Zealand finalist, Cross embodies the spirit of empowerment and community engagement. Her involvement in charity and advocacy, along with her professional development through media training and personal branding, showcases her holistic approach to pageantry. The grand finals, set to take place at Auckland's Skycity Theatre, will be a testament to her hard work and dedication.
In my opinion, Hannah Cross's story is a powerful reminder of the impact that pageantry can have beyond the runway. It's a platform that allows individuals to become ambassadors of change, using their influence to make a difference in their communities. Cross's journey is an inspiration, showing that beauty and creativity can be powerful tools for positive transformation.
