Firstly, please let me introduce myself, I’m Hannah and I’m 17 years old currently studying textiles and fashion design at Pembrokeshire College. I live in Pembrokeshire and grew up here. Recently I went to Cardiff to audition for a place in Miss Wales and it was an amazing experience! I’ve recently been successful in gaining a place as a finalist in Miss Wales 2018 which takes place in Newport, during April next year. So to be able to secure my place I need to raise £500 plus VAT or partner up with one or two commercial sponsors or private donations to start my journey.

Miss Wales has raised more than £500,000 for children’s charities since 2004 and part of my commitment as a finalist is to help fundraise between now and the final. All the funds I raise will go to the Miss World charity called Beauty With A Purpose.

This is a huge part as to why I want to be a part of this journey. It really is a chance of a lifetime for me to do this and help raise money in so many ways for disadvantaged children and it would be wonderful to know the community would be supporting this too. It really is a passion of mine to challenge myself, push myself out of my comfort zone and get stuck in with as many fundraisers as I possibly can! I have so many fundraising ideas I cant wait to start and involve friends, family and the local community in! Keep an eye of my Facebook page too as I'll be letting you all know how I'm getting on with posts and photos.

This Miss Wales opportunity for me is not just about outward beauty or fashion, it's about self development and building inner confidence whilst being fully committed to raising as much money for such an inspirational children's charity. I've always lacked confidence because I'm abnormally tall (over 6 feet last time I was measured ;) and people say I'm unusual with my quirky features, so hearing about Miss Wales being able to empower young women and raise money at the same time really caught my attention. I believe there will be so much I can learn from this experience and help empower other young women who might lack the confidence like me. I want to be a role model not a super model.

In the past my mum and I have supported many charities and raised funds for children with learning disabilities and it's brought a great sense of achievement knowing that we have been able to play apart in helping others improve their lives. I know no matter how small a contribution, it can help change a person's life in much bigger ways.

I would be so thrilled to be able to drive this opportunity forward for such a worth while cause. Any donations big or small are all very welcome and appreciated massively!

Thankyou so much for reading,

Hannah X