Feature Image Photographer: Yolanda Kingdon Pageant Photo

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Welcome back to the Grand Series of Beauty Corner! This edition features the lovely Miss Grand United Kingdom 2022, Sofia Mayers. The Sofia is going into the competition with a laser focus on having the United Kingdom rise to the top of the pageant rankings. She is used to being in front of the camera since starting her pageant and modeling career at a young age. While she experiences the glamour of pageantry and modeling, she also experiences the warmth of those for whom she volunteers her time to make their lives better. Continue reading to learn more about the United Kingdom’s representative for Miss Grand International 2022.

Q: Congratulations on being crowned Miss Grand United Kingdom 2022! What made you want to represent the United Kingdom at Miss Grand International?

A: To be able to represent my home country, the United Kingdom, is such an honour. Historically, the UK has rarely been noticed at big international beauty pageants. However, I want to change this narrative and show the whole world that the United Kingdom deserves recognition in the European division as well as the whole competition! 

Q: What are looking forward to the most at the Miss Grand International 2022 pageant in Indonesia?

Q: The Miss Grand United Kingdom director, Kathryn Fanshawe, is a former Miss Grand Wales titleholder. Since Kathryn has competed at Miss Grand International before, is there any piece of advice she has shared with you about the international competition that you will particularly find handy when you land in Indonesia for the pageant?

A: Kathryn has been such a fantastic supporter of the Miss Grand International competition; her advice, knowledge, and encouragement are inspiring! Her main focus is to ensure that her queens will always be original and authentic.

Q: You were on season one of the British reality show The Cabins. Can you tell us about The Cabins, and how you got onto the show?

A: During the pandemic, I was lucky enough to be approached by ITV2 (a very well-known and respected TV company), who were fascinated by my career as a beauty queen and how it affected my dating life. Through their interest, I was broadcast on national TV in the UK on a dating show where the contestants were watched 24 hours a day to learn more about each other and their romantic lives.

Q: What was the biggest takeaway from your experience on The Cabins?

A: From being on national TV (The Cabins), I learned that life can offer you the most incredible opportunities if you have the courage to pursue them! I am so grateful for this adventure in my life.

Q: Your social media feed is full of gorgeous modeling photos. How did you get your start in modeling? What has been your favorite modeling gig?

Q: You are the founder of the Untouchable campaign. Can you tell us about your campaign and why you started it?

A: Untouchable: This campaign was created by myself as a platform to educate all women about the importance of self-defense, in addition to safety and support within communities.
As a survivor of violence and sexual violence myself, having been held at gun point and assaulted, I vowed to never let anyone make me feel powerless ever again.
So many young women all over the world experience many forms of violence, and it has to stop! I will stand alongside all women and promise to be the voice of those who are unable to speak their truth.

Q: You have been open about your diagnosis with endometriosis on social media. What are some common misconceptions about periods that are actually possible signs of endometriosis?

A: Endometriosis is one of many chronic illnesses that affect people from all walks of life. There are many common misconceptions about menstruation, including “periods are supposed to be painful.” This statement is actually very incorrect.

Your average person who has a period will experience some form of moderate discomfort, as well as generalised symptoms. However, endometriosis can be hidden and can often be misdiagnosed. It is so important to consult with your doctor about a screening/surgery to truly find out if you have this illness.

Common symptoms of Endometriosis include: 

Q: I, as well as many others, have the United Kingdom on our list of places we want to visit. What are some spots in your country that you highly recommend for visitors to check out?

A: There are so many beautiful and picturesque places to visit in the United Kingdom. Personally, I would highly recommend The Royal Albert Hall, Oxford Street, and also the Crown Jewels.

Q: If you could have any superpower, what superpower would you want, and why?

Q: If you were allowed to change on thing about your country, what would it be, and why?

A: If I had the opportunity to change one thing in my country, I would certainly change and develop our communication skills with one another. 
Negativity and hatred are born from a lack of understanding and communication. The United Kingdom has, over the years, progressed in this sector. However, I do believe we have a long way to go to ensure that we maintain a peaceful balance within ourselves as well as our country.

Q: Our society spends a lot of time behind screens (computers, phones, etc.). Do you believe this impacts our world in a more positive or negative way?

A: Our society is blessed with the privilege of social media and easy access to the internet. Millions connect with each other worldwide within seconds. Although, as a world, we have become more connected online over the years, sadly, we have become more disconnected within our hearts. Personally, I have seen the detrimental effects that screens have had on younger generations who are now growing up around mass technology.
As a united front, we all need to acknowledge the impact that technology has had on our lives for better and for worse, and find a healthier balance.

Q: Finally, is there anything else you would like to share with us?

A: One fascinating fact about myself is that I actually suffer from a neurological disorder called Irlen Syndrome. This brain disorder actually prevents my body from being able to process visual information correctly, meaning I see incorrect colours and patterns wherever I go. There are so many other symptoms of this condition that medically should stop me from succeeding and living a “normal life”. However, I have learned to try and see past the distortions and focus on positivity.

This or That

Thank you for being a part of this special Grand Series of Beauty Corner, Sofia! Best of luck at the Miss Grand International 2022 pageant!

Thank you all for reading this edition of Beauty Corner! Make sure to follow Sofia on her personal Instagram as well as the Miss Grand United Kingdom Instagram to stay up to date with Sofia’s journey to the Miss Grand International crown.

Photo credit to all photographers

Follow the Beauty and Brains official Instagram for breaking news on all things pageantry! @beauty_brains_pageants

Tags: Beauty and Brains, Beauty Corner, MGI, Miss Grand International 2022, Miss Grand United Kingdom, Miss United Kingdom, MissGrandInternational, Sofia Mayers, UK, United Kingdom