By Shruthi Ashwathappa – national finalist representing Victoria in the Australia Galaxy Pageant
I come from Indian roots and now call Australia my home, where I’m building my life and purpose.
Moving to Australia from India was a life-changing step, a leap into the unknown, filled with challenges, growth, and self-discovery. It was in this journey of adaptation and learning that I discovered my own voice, my confidence, and my desire to make a meaningful impact in the world.
By profession I’m an IT professional – problem solver by day, purpose-driven by heart. I love music, fitness, sports and movement. Running keeps me mentally strong and emotionally balanced. Mental health advocacy is close to me. I believe looking after the mind is just as important as looking after the body.
For a long time, I believed pageantry was only about perfect smiles, flawless walks, and glamorous gowns. Like many people, my understanding of pageants came from global competitions such as Miss Universe where beauty, stage presence, and performance often take centre stage. My journey into the Australia Galaxy Pageant however led me somewhere very different into a space that values purpose as much as presentation and authenticity as much as appearance.
The Australia Galaxy Pageant is a purpose-driven competition designed to celebrate not only confidence and personal presentation but also the journey toward becoming the best version of yourself. While traditional pageant elements such as stage presence and style are included the heart of this competition lies in self-growth, authenticity, and the meaningful impact contestants can make in their communities.
Unlike Miss Universe and other conventional beauty competitions the Australia Galaxy Pageant is deeply rooted in personal growth and social contribution. Contestants are encouraged to embrace their unique backgrounds, experiences, and passions, demonstrating that leadership, empathy, and purpose are just as important as appearance.
Diversity is celebrated in age, profession, culture, and life journey there is no single mould for success.
My own journey into this pageant began during a period of self-reflection. While I have always pushed myself professionally, I faced personal challenges including moments of self-doubt, emotional fatigue, and the quiet struggles that many people encounter but rarely discuss. Joining the Australia Galaxy Pageant became an empowering way to confront these challenges, develop my voice, and stand confidently in my truth.
One of the most meaningful aspects of this pageant is its focus on advocacy. Each participant advocates a cause close to their heart. For me, that cause is mental health awareness. In a society where achievement is often measured externally, conversations about mental wellbeing can remain stigmatized. Through this platform, I hope to encourage open dialogue, self-compassion, and the understanding that strength is not the absence of struggle, but the courage to keep going.
Preparation for the Australia Galaxy Pageant has been transformative. Beyond rehearsing walks or poses, it includes coaching, self-reflection, public speaking, and mindset development. Contestants are nurtured to become role models and advocates not just titleholders. The crown, if won, is symbolic rather than central. The true reward lies in the confidence gained, stories shared, and lives touched.
This pageant stands apart because it redefines what it means to be a ‘pageant winner.’ Success is measured not by perfection, but by authenticity, leadership, and impact. Beauty is recognized in courage, vulnerability, resilience, and the willingness to grow.
For me, this journey has already been a victory. It has taught me to honor my story, speak with intention, and show up unapologetically as myself. While the stage may shine with glamour, the real reward is the lessons learned, the voices raised, and the positive change created including in my own life.
The Australia Galaxy Pageant will be held from 29 April to 3 May in Bankstown, NSW where the crowning of this year’s winner will take place.
