Anthea Zammit

Nevertheless, Anthea used her Miss Universe Malta experience as a personal challenge and also to serve as an example for others that where there is a will, there is a way. “I took part in Miss Universe Malta to conquer my insecurities. It is already a victory for me to have found myself and I did not let anyone bring me down,” the young law student says today, in a message of courage following her crowning as Miss Universe Malta.

Anthea admits though that aside from the underlying scope of participating in such a prestigious contest, she is also thrilled about the opportunity it offers as a beauty competition. "I am obviously so unbelievably excited to go to Miss Universe. Every single experience so far has been incredible. I cannot wait to travel to the US. I am looking forward to meeting like-minded young women and getting to know each of them and what they are bringing to Miss Universe." She boldly adds, "I am embracing this beautiful journey because I want to look back at this experience having no regrets. I really want to live it to the full!"

It is natural for us to ask Anthea "what are the biggest misconception of beauty queens?" She promptly notes, "I think that such an event is much more than just a competition. It improves our lives and makes a difference in our lives. As cliché as it sounds, it makes a difference in people’s life. However big, however small." She adds, "Miss Universe has certainly evolved, especially with the emergence of social media and the internet. Moreover, the event is more wholesome in the sense that the girls’ back stories are given more importance. Thus, it’s just not about looking like a supermodel walking down the runway." Anthea also notes that Miss Universe serves as a medium to send clear societal messages. She refers to this year's Miss Universe South Africa, Zozibini Tunzi, whose win is a significant shift from the status quo. It is a clear message of change against the backdrop of centuries of under-representation for black women in the beauty industry.

We ask her what does beauty mean to her to which she quotes the famous American psychologist, Elisabeth Kubler-Ross, "People are like stainedglass windows. They sparkle and shine when the sun is out, but when the darkness sets in, their true beauty is revealed only if there is a light from within." She remarks that beauty is not only about the looks but also about a beautiful inner soul. Atelier also asks Anthea whether good looks play a key role in contemporary society to which she notes, "Good looks are definitely a plus when it comes to creating a great first impression and attracting more opportunities. However, I do believe that good looks aren’t worth much if they’re not coupled with a great personality. In fact, I’d rather make a great, lasting impression by using my personality, than make a short-lived one based on my looks."

She also shares with us her views on women empowerment. Anthea believes that women empowerment is basically lifting each other up. "As women, we put other women on pedestals. We make sure that they are highly spoken of. It’s not about being a feminist or it’s not about “the males being better than the females” or anything like that. But it’s more of a balance and making sure that we are proud of our own gender and that we carry it with great pride."

People are like stained-glass windows. They sparkle and shine when the sun is out, but when the darkness sets in, their true beauty is revealed only if there is a light from within.

It is time to conclude yet without further ado, we ask Anthea what's next for her. With her glowing eyes and a dazzling smile, she notes, “I am today a different Anthea. I feel grown-up having been through certain experiences that made me more mature.” Indeed, now in her third year of the law degree, Anthea says her career plans have helped her beliefs become stronger. Her knowledge of human rights in particular, inspires her to want to help others. She also looks forward to one day opening her own dance school and having a family. She admits though that without the support of the people close to her and the experience she gained through her life experience, she would certainly not be where she is today.