Slovenia did not organize the competition last year, which is why Ema Jagodič, the previous Miss Universe, kept the title for two years. On Sunday, however, the final selection for Miss Universe took place in Portorož. Fourteen girls who had been chosen through casting competed in the finale. The blonde belle from the Štajerska region attracted the most attention and became Miss Universe as well as Miss Photogenic.
She did not wish to reveal much about herself in the interview, since she’s still new to the world of the media, but she will certainly have gained experience by the world contest on 9 November in Moscow. She hasn’t yet decided what to do with the main prize, a 20,000-euro stipend for a 4-year study programme at the Faculty of Economics and Management in Zagreb.
Are you still simply happy to have won the title of Miss Universe, or are you becoming anxious about how your life might change now? Publicity sometimes brings negative things …
I’m still happy, even though my life will definitely change; due to interviews, travels – if nothing else… I’m not worried about publicity and negative things such as people gossiping out of envy. I don’t have time for them.
I can’t think of a previous Slovenian miss who would study medicine and want to become a surgeon. Do you see beauty contests as a hobby or an activity in your leisure time? Are you a model, too?
I don’t see beauty contests as a leisure time activity. I’m conscious of the obligations they bring along. But I’m aware of the fact that in Slovenia it’s not enough to be just a model; although I work as a model, one needs knowledge to succeed in life.
Just before you won, you refused to tell the media if you’re single or not. I imagine you value your privacy and will try to keep your life private. Can we expect to see you “everywhere”, or is socializing with the Slovenian elite not quite your cup of tea and you only plan to visit the events you’re told to take part in?
Private life is my business only, I don’t intend on sharing it with the public. I have to get used to media attention first, but of course I won’t only participate in the events I get told to. My life hasn’t stopped.
Are you familiar with the name of Donald Trump? Is it your wish to meet him in person?
Of course I know the name. Donald Trump is an American entrepreneur and cooperates with NBC, the biggest American TV network; he bought the licence for Miss Universe in 1996. I believe it should be the wish of every Miss Universe – it is mine – to meet him.
Your mom cheered for you in the audience. Did she give you any pieces of advice before the contest – and any after you have won the title?
She sent be a text message before the selection. She wrote she wished much luck and that she was cheering for me. Afterwards, she told me to stay who I am.