Miss Universe Singapore 2018: Sushil Como pushes for greater mental health awareness
Easy-going girl-next-door Sushil Como believes that the title of MUS holds great responsibility, and one that will aid in her stand for mental health awareness.
She hopes to fight against the stigma that lies behind such conditions and to let people know that it is perfectly okay to not be okay sometimes.
The 25-year-old financial consultant also stresses the importance of self-care and self-empowerment regardless of social and economic background.
Who are your personal icons of beauty and empowered women?
Meghan Markle, as she represents change in a progressive world. I believe she is what this next generation of young women need. Her strong sense of self and determination is truly admirable. I also love her style - she is always chic and classy and maintains a timeless, minimalist look.
Today, it is all about curves, just look at celebrities such as Kim Kardashian and Jennifer Lopez. These stereotypes serve to make girls and women chase after what society considers beautiful while forgetting to embrace who they are.
If you could go anywhere, where would you go?
The Auschwitz concentration camp in Poland. I have always loved anything history-related. I have read widely about the Nazi regime and how brutal the persecutions were during the Holocaust. The place portrays the remarkable capacity of the human spirit and willpower. It would definitely be a bittersweet experience for me.
If you could change anything, what would it be?
People's idea of beauty.
Each generation has its standard of beauty. During the 90s, it was all about tall, pale and slender women, like Kate Moss.
Then Brazilian supermodels and Victoria's Secret Angels became all the craze. While they are beautiful, these women also help to perpetuate unrealistic standards of beauty.
Today, it is all about curves, just look at celebrities such as Kim Kardashian and Jennifer Lopez.
These stereotypes serve to make girls and women chase after what society considers beautiful while forgetting to embrace who they are.
Do you have any special talent?
Just call me (the music app) Shazam - I can listen to a song and tell you exactly what it is. I am also really flexible. I think it comes from my years of ballet since childhood.
What is your proudest achievement and what did it teach you?
Making it through my accounting and finance bachelor's degree at the University of London. There were times when it got so tough and I simply wanted to give up.
But I got really lucky because I made friends in my first year and they remained my constants throughout.
We went through sleepless nights and helped one another whatever way we could. I learnt that perseverance definitely pays off and it is crucial who you surround yourself with. A strong support system and people who want to see you succeed are everything.
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