Kiara O’Leary Shines in International Pageant

Kiara O’Leary, the winner of Miss Supermodel NZ 2024, recently represented New Zealand in the prestigious Miss Tourism Worldwide competition held in Singapore and Malaysia, where she impressively secured the second runner-up position.

A Monumental Achievement

Reflecting on her journey, the 28-year-old model expressed her joy, stating, “I couldn’t stop smiling,” when she learned of her remarkable placement. This accolade marks a significant milestone in her personal aspirations and represents a considerable achievement in her modeling career.

Inspiration from New Zealand’s Own

O’Leary drew inspiration from Lorraine Downes, the 1983 Miss Universe winner and a fellow Kiwi. She mentioned, “To become first runner-up is the closest we’ve [New Zealand] got in over 30 years now to a winning title, so that meant the world to me.” This connection to New Zealand’s pageant history fuels her ambition to continue breaking barriers in the modeling industry.

A Busy Week of Competition

Describing the experience as “non-stop,” O’Leary highlighted the relentless schedule of events that extended late into the night. Contestants engaged in numerous preparations, from hair styling to outfit organization, ensuring they were ready for each day’s challenges. They also took time to explore local attractions, including cuddling Siberian Huskies and visiting the iconic Merlion.

Cultural Exchange and Community Support

Part of the competition involved a cultural exchange, where contestants gifted items representing their home countries. O’Leary chose mud masks from Rotorua’s Polynesian Spa, showcasing New Zealand’s unique heritage. Prior to the pageant, she raised funds for her gowns and received significant support from Rotorua Rotary, who generously sponsored her with $1,000.

Exciting Future Opportunities

Hailing from Rotorua, O’Leary balances her modeling career with her full-time job as a dental nurse. Excitingly, she has received an invitation to Miami in May for casting in Miami Swim Week — a landmark opportunity, as she is the first New Zealander invited to attend this high-profile event. “I burst into tears when I saw it,” she shared, encapsulating her excitement for the potential ahead.

Championing Community and Empowerment

Should she not be cast in the event, O’Leary plans to spend the week enjoying a well-deserved holiday. Otherwise, she anticipates a week filled with swimwear modeling and fashion shows. Beyond her modeling pursuits, O’Leary actively supports community initiatives like Love Soup, a charity that provides food for those in need. She also participates in local events that encourage children to explore various interests, promoting confidence through sports, modeling, and dance.

Changing Perspectives through Pageantry

With a background as a ballerina for eleven years, O’Leary aims to inspire younger generations through her modeling journey. She believes that pageantry extends beyond aesthetic appeal, emphasizing intelligence and self-confidence. “It’s pretty much about women empowerment,” she asserts, as she continues to reshape the narrative surrounding beauty and success in the modeling industry.