I know the struggles
that being differently
abled can bring so if I
can help one person
facing that hurdle,
I will be happy.
Location, location
Link photographed Justine in the
glamorous HENNESSY Bar at Mayfair
Hotel, Adelaide. Located in the heart
of the city, this stylish boutique hotel
is the perfect location for an indulgent
city escape. To find out more, head
to page 55.
“Beauty is what is on the inside,” is coming, but it’s slow. I think she’s continuing her good work
she says. “Beauty is in the eye of the there needs to be more of an fundraising for Variety and will be
beholder, it’s different to everyone. emphasis in schools that people propelled to the national final if
with disabilities are capable and she’s Australia’s top fundraiser.
“I grew up watching beauty intelligent people. People with Justine is optimistic she can
pageants and thought Miss World disabilities are always strong and achieve this goal, but acknowledges
would be the perfect platform for I think that is a great attribute to that “winning isn’t everything”.
me to advocate for fairness on the have. I will do my best to change “The positivity that has come from
catwalk. I loved the Miss World the portrayal of people with everyone has been great and no
concept of beauty with a purpose, disabilities within the media.” matter how much attention I get,
as well as raising money for
I’m still going to be me.”
children with disabilities through She also encourages young people Variety: the Children’s Charity. with disabilities to “not worry Justine’s upbeat attitude no doubt
I know the struggles that being about stereotypes and to just be stems from her grandmother,
differently abled can bring so if I wholeheartedly you”. “Surround whom she obviously adores.
can help one person facing that yourself with people who support “My beautiful nan is the most
hurdle, I will be happy.” you and things that make you inspirational and selfless person
happy. Tell your kids you love them I know,” she says. “She has had
Though Justine - who has a lower for who they are and that they can some struggles throughout her
leg deformity - prefers not to do anything their heart desires. life but she is such a positive
discuss her disability and the Push them out of their comfort and uplifting presence in my life.
circumstances surrounding it, she’s zones, challenge them, and show Without her I wouldn’t be the
happy to share her views on how them they are no different to woman I am today. There are
people with disability are often anyone else. And most importantly, honestly no words for how lucky I
portrayed in the media. be there for them always. Listen am that she is my nan.”
and take notice.”
Away from Miss World, Justine is an
“I hate the word ‘disabled’ - it
22
makes me feel like I’m a different Though Justine didn’t win the South active person who loves strength
species,” she says. “Change Australian heat of Miss World, training and swimming. “I hope to
interview
linkonline.com.au