Australia Galaxy Pageants Finalists Shine Bright for batyr
May 21, 2025
A massive congratulations to the incredible finalists from Australia Galaxy Pageants, who have raised over $37,500 for youth mental health this year - bringing their total impact to an incredible $120,000+ raised over the past three years!
Each year, Australia Galaxy Pageants empowers young women from all walks of life to be leaders in their communities, and this year was no different. Over the past five months, this inspiring group of finalists took on the challenge of raising funds and awareness for batyr by running their own fundraising events and sharing powerful messages about the importance of mental health.
From barbeques to bake sales, raffles and photography sessions, recycling collections and more, the creativity and heart behind every event was incredible.
"I organised and ran a Bunnings sausage sizzle at my local store, bringing the community together to support a great cause.
I also reached out to local businesses who were keen to get involved and lend a hand, helping raise funds and awareness for batyr."
- Alessandra
“I raised funds by hosting my own charity event, Belle of the Ball, which brought together people from all walks of life to celebrate confidence, individuality, and mental wellbeing. The experience was so special because it allowed me and others to speak openly about mental health and start creating those real conversations. Creating a safe and uplifting space reminded me just how powerful community support can be in making young people feel seen and valued.”
- Isabelle
“Raising money for a cause so close to my heart was the most rewarding experience. Fundraising for batyr was an open invitation to let my creative mind run wild. It makes me so proud to raise money for mental health through my creative passions, because it was those very hobbies that aided me on my own mental health journey and even turned into a career. I was also able to donate proceeds from ticket sales, sell pre-loved clothing and receive generous donations from friends and family.”
- Danni
This month, more than 40 finalists from across Australia gathered in Sydney to compete for the national titles of Miss Teen, Miss, Ms, and Mrs Galaxy Australia. Over 4 action-packed days, the finalists participated in a range of events including personal development and empowerment workshops, professional photoshoots, fashion shows, and the highly anticipated Crowning Gala.
It’s not just about the crowns - what makes this partnership so powerful is how many finalists chose to use their voices to open up honest conversations about mental health. By sharing their own stories and raising awareness, they’ve helped reduce the stigma that still surrounds mental ill-health and empowered other young people to reach out for help when they need it.
“Your mental health matters more than you know. Through my platform, For Every Beautiful Body, I always remind young people that beauty comes in every form, and confidence grows when we feel supported emotionally. I want others to know they’re not alone in how they feel. Speaking up is strong. Asking for help is brave. And being kind to yourself is essential. Every body, every mind, and every story deserves respect and care.” - Isabelle
“I want young people to know that you deserve to be happy. That prioritising your mental health is not selfish. It's an important investment into your wellbeing. For a long time I tried to manage mental ill-health on my own, because I didn’t think it was serious enough to address, but I was wrong. You don’t have to wait until you’re in the red zone, to feel better or seek help. That is why I have mindset tools I use on a daily basis to keep my mental fitness in check. Listen to your body, do things that make you happy and stay curious.” - Danni
“To other young people, I want to say: your mental health matters just as much as your physical health. It’s okay to not be okay, and it’s brave to ask for help when you need it. Life can feel overwhelming at times, but you are never alone - there’s always someone willing to listen and support you. Taking care of your mind by talking about your feelings, setting boundaries, and practising self-care isn’t selfish - it’s necessary. Let’s keep breaking the stigma so we can all live happier, healthier lives.” - Alessandra
We are beyond grateful to Australia Galaxy Pageants for their ongoing support. This is the third year they’ve chosen to champion preventative mental health and empower young people to take action early and often.
“My fundraising journey for batyr has really hit home for me, just how powerful conversations are. Simply by wearing the batyr shirt in public while fundraising and sharing my passion for mental health, it sparked conversations every single time. People would openly share stories of friends and family that had been affected by ill mental health and just how big an impact, a seemingly small positive can make to someone.” - Danni
“I was bullied physically, emotionally and mentally throughout high school, which led me into a dark place myself. Now having batyr and the Australia Galaxy Pageants platform, I've been able to share my story and make a difference in somebody's life: big or small. Supporting batyr has strengthened my commitment to creating spaces where young people can embrace who they are and talk openly about their struggles without shame.” - Isabelle
“Being part of this experience has really changed the way I see mental health and wellbeing. It’s helped me understand how important it is to take care of ourselves and to check in with others, because you never know what someone might be going through. I’ve become so passionate about raising awareness and breaking the stigma around mental health, and this journey has inspired me to keep encouraging open, honest conversations so that no one ever feels alone.” - Alessandra
After competing in the Crowning Gala, the winners will be heading to Orlando in August to compete at the international competition.
A big thank you to all of the 2025 finalists - your energy, passion, vulnerability, and commitment to community advocacy is exactly what helps us reduce the stigma around mental health.