Skeheen’s Shannon Brennan hopes for local beauty queen
2021’s Miss South Tipp Shannon Brennan, is hoping that a local girl will get involved in the competition this year, the precursor to Miss Ireland. With applications now open, Shannon spoke to The Avondhu about her positive experience in the competition - and with International Women’s Day on Tuesday, the feminism that underpins her decision to enter.
“I think it’s completely counterproductive to tell women that it’s not feminist to take part in a beauty pageant. I mean, the whole thing about feminism is allowing women to do whatever they want to do and pursue whatever they want to pursue.”
Shannon credits the competition process with doing wonders for her confidence, and for public speaking.
“I think it’s exceptional. It teaches young girls to speak, and speak about what they care about. Some people will find it intimidating, as would I, but I find now I am more confident in expressing my views, even in just day-to-day things. I found especially when it came to interviewing for jobs, I thought it was really helpful; as Irish girls, I think we find it difficult to talk about ourselves but it kinda forces you to talk about yourself - for lack of a better phrase!”
Self-acceptance, though it seems counterintuitive, is another thing that the Skeheenarinky woman has learned.
“I found I matured a lot, and I’m much more comfortable in my own skin from doing it. I don’t tend to care what people think, which sounds a bit bizarre because you’re being judged, but you learn to accept yourself for what you are, and what you stand for. I think it’s phenomenal for confidence, that’s why I’d encourage any girl to go for it.”
Applications are now open for the competition, for all counties, through their social media. Finalists will enter the Miss Ireland competition, and the winner will go on to represent the country at Miss World.