It’s official: the universe now has a new little star! And she’s from a small hobby farm in regional New South Wales.
Bubbly 11-year-old Nevaeh-Lea Benton, from Jindera near Albury, has taken centre stage on the world stage, claiming the glittering crown of Little Miss Universe in the Philippines.
The pint-sized powerhouse outshone 19 girls from nine countries after a week of dazzling events, from national costume and evening gown to talent, interviews and resort wear. And yes, she wore it all like a natural.
Her mum, Bonnie Smith, couldn’t be prouder. “Nevaeh-Lea’s public speaking has become amazing … the way she held herself in front of the seven judges … I was quite impressed for an 11-year-old,” she beamed.
Pageantry is clearly a family affair, with four of Ms Smith’s children now competing – including two sons who are about to make their own debut on the runway.
And while the world might picture beauty pageants as all fake tans, fake teeth and hair extensions, Ms Smith said she was relieved to discover the Australian community takes a very different approach.
“You actually get marked down here if you do those things,” she told ABC News. “It’s about confidence, not cosmetics.”
As for Nevaeh-Lea, she’s proof that you don’t need to come from a big city to reach for the stars; sometimes the brightest crowns are won by country kids with a whole lot of heart.
Images: ABC News / Bonnie Smith
