The Kerryman (South Kerry Edition)
Rossbeigh’s Anna is firm believer in empowerment
AFTER entering the world of modelling at just 17, Anna Cahill has come a long way in becoming one of the biggest emerging names in the Irish fashion industry. Now, at 21, the Glenbeigh native has been chosen as a finalist in the prestigious Miss Universe Ireland pageant title.
Finalists are judged on all aspects of ‘self ’, from their physical appearance to their command on current affairs. In that particular section, Anna will have a head-start as she is the daughter of experienced Fianna Fáil Councillor Michael Cahill.
As she prepares for her first ever pageant, Anna told The Kerryman why she thinks Miss Universe plays a key role in empowering women.
“I’ve always had an interest in the pageant but never thought I’d bite the bullet and enter,” she said. “It is a fantastic experience for any young woman, giving her the opportunity to use her voice to raise awareness about certain causes she feels strongly about, to promote herself and what she stands for.
“It is more than just a beauty pageant. It is based on personality, knowledge and values. One must be well-mannered, intelligent and cultured to progress in the competition.
“The pageant experience is new for me, and I’m really enjoying it. I love the modelling side to it, but the big difference here is I get to use my voice and express my opinions. The pageant makes me feel so empowered as a woman.”
It has all been a whirlwind for Anna since she started her modelling career but she has taken it in her stride.
“I started modelling in Madrid – I was scouted while shopping in the city. I took a gap-year in Spain when I was 17. I got a lot of experience walking in fashion shows and doing photo-shoots, and I’m lucky to be in such a nice agency, Upfront Models, where everyone is so lovely.
“It means a lot to me to be a part of Miss Universe as I would’ve been known as a shy girl. This is a big step up for me in many ways, but I have to say my modelling experience has really helped my confidence.”
Anna has featured in bridal, fashion and commercial shoots, and on the RTÉ’s Today Show.
But, despite her experience, she says she almost missed the competition deadline.
“I entered online the night before the deadline for applications, not knowing what to expect. I then woke up to an email saying they loved my application and were highly considering me for the top 30 and asked me to fill out other applications to find out more about me.
“I was then asked to come up to meet the director of Miss Universe Ireland in Dublin as soon as I could, and when I did, I found out I had been chosen as a finalist!”
Of course, being crowned Miss Universe Ireland would be a great achievement, but Anna’s future plans remain the same no matter what the outcome is on the night.
“If I win, it would be a full-time job for the year, but it would be my dream job – helping others, representing Ireland and working with charities, making the world a better place.
“If I don’t win, I will continue my studies and move to Buenos Aires for my ‘study abroad’ year, and hopefully get to travel through South
I WOULD ADVISE YOUNG GIRLS TO STAY TRUE TO THEMSELVES, ACCEPT THEMSELVES FOR WHO THEY ARE AND STAY TRUE TO THEMSELVES.
America.”
Anna hopes to study a Masters Degree in international relations and pursue a career in foreign affairs, aided by her multilingualism – she speaks English, Spanish and is currently studying Portuguese and German. She also has a keen interest in societal issues.
“I am very interested in mental health and homelessness charities, so I hope to get really involved in those.
“I’d also like to fund-raise and travel to Lourdes someday with the Irish Pilgrimage Trust.”
Between growing up with her father in politics and helping in the family B&B, she has gained the confidence necessary for being in the public eye.
“My dad is actually a very shy person behind being involved in politics! My mom would be more outgoing than my dad, but I think I’ve my father’s traits. Growing up in hospitality, I’m used to meeting and greeting people, which helps me when it comes to confidence.”
And to any young person who may be looking up to Anna and her success, she has a few words of wisdom.
“I know it can be scary putting yourself out there. I’ve been there, but it will be totally worth it! I haven’t looked back from the day I started modelling, and so many opportunities have come from it. I would advise young girls to stay true to themselves, accept themselves for who they are and how they look.”