Catriona Gray
One Small Step At a Time
Miss Universe Catriona Gray taking things one small step at a time
Catriona Gray, or Cat as she is affectionately known, lives by the maxim that her father taught her – One Small Step at a Time. Clinching the title of Miss Universe 2018, this tall, dark-haired beauty spoke exclusively to Upscale Living magazine about the absolute joy she experienced when she heard her name being called out as the winner of this prestigious contest.
YOU ARE THE FOURTH MISS PHILIPPINES TO WEAR THE MISS UNIVERSE CROWN. CONGRATULATIONS! DO YOU HAVE ANY MISS UNIVERSE MENTORS THAT YOU LOOK UP TO?
Thank you! I look up to all my fellow contestants who have won Miss Universe before me. One of my predecessors Miss Philippines, Rachel Peters, was a huge inspiration to me. I also had a team of people that prepared and supported me to take on the role of Miss Universe.
YOU WERE BORN IN AUSTRALIA AND SPENT YOUR FORMATIVE YEARS THERE. WHAT ARE YOUR FONDEST CHILDHOOD MEMORIES?
As an only child, I loved the outdoors. My favorite childhood memories involve climbing trees and just being in nature.
WHEN AND WHY DID YOU MOVE TO THE PHILIPPINES?
It was always a fascination for me to see more of the world, to explore different countries and cultures. Since I have family ties in the Philippines; my Mom is a Filipino, it seemed like the logical choice to start off there after I finished my schooling in Australia.
WHAT IS YOUR FITNESS AND BEAUTY ROUTINE?
I absolutely love Pilates, especially the elongation technique. It has a very calming effect on my body. I additionally try to exercise at least three times a week. As for my beauty routine, I believe a woman should never to go to bed wearing make-up. My mom has always encouraged me to choose natural products; my go-to for removing my makeup is coconut oil.
WHAT WERE YOUR IMMEDIATE THOUGHTS WHEN YOU HEARD YOUR NAME BEING CALLED AS THE NEW MISS UNIVERSE 2018?
Hearing my name announced as the new Miss Universe was one of the happiest moments of my life. I was in a total dream state when I got
crowned and one of the thoughts that went through my mind was that I should have worn waterproof mascara (she laughs). Fortunately, I could control my emotions and just savor the moment. I couldn’t stop smiling!
YOUR COUNTRY MUST BE SO PROUD OF YOU. WHAT MESSAGE DO YOU HAVE FOR YOUR FELLOW CITIZENS?
They have been so incredibly supportive and I’m so grateful to have such a strong following not only in my country, but all over the world.
A YEAR IN A NEW YORK APARTMENT - HOW EXCITING! HOW DO YOU ENVISAGE SETTLING IN AND MAKING YOUR APARTMENT HOME?
Living in New York City really is a dream come true. When I wake up in the morning, I get to look out over Central Park. I have brought a few special things with me from the Philippines, to make the apartment feel more like home.
YOU HAVE QUITE A BUSY TIME AHEAD. WHAT DO YOU LOOK MOST FORWARD TO?
It is such an honor having this platform as Miss Universe to create awareness about different causes close to my heart, whether it is education or being an advocate for HIV/ AIDS. It is important to break down the stigma associated with HIV/AIDS by being tested.
I work with an organization in the Philippines called Young Focus and they provide access to quality education for underprivileged children. Education really is the cornerstone of a promising future.
I also want to use my musical background to bring as much joy to people as it has brought me. I released my first original track called ‘We’re In This Together’. I love making music with a bit of a roar in it! It would be so much fun to hold a benefit concert during my reign as Miss Universe to give back to those less fortunate.