Looking at Miss Bermuda 2014 contestant Siairah Minors, one might assume she’s your average girlie-girl.

But the 19-year-old is actually anything but that.

She is currently undertaking a Bachelor of Policing degree which covers law, sociology, criminology and policing at Middlesex University in England. Her ultimate goal is to return to the Island and join the police service.

“I always knew I wanted to be in a career that gives back to Bermuda, but also wanted a career that would be stimulating and satisfying,” she said. “Working in the police field you never know what will be thrown at you which keeps it interesting.”

She said many people were also surprised to learn that she’s heavily involved in sports like running, sailing, netball and hiking, which she enjoyed throughout high school and college.

Miss Minors said most people are used to seeing her when she’s dressed up, but there’s another side of her that enjoys being active and playing outdoor competitive sports.

Representing St George’s in the upcoming pageant, Miss Minors said she always wanted to take part in the Miss Bermuda contest, but didn’t feel ready until this time around.

“After being inspired by the contestants last year I decided I was going to do it,” she said.

“I knew it would be hard and challenging but when I saw how all the young ladies carried themselves with poise and confidence, I was inspired to do the same.

“I also saw this as a great learning experience with the added bonus of doing things I love to do, such as making new friends and having a good time getting dressed up and fancy,” she added.

So far the pageant process has forced her out of her comfort zone.

At the first few practices she was extremely nervous and couldn’t stop shaking or stumbling over her words, but after speaking to the other young women and realising she wasn’t alone, things got easier.

She said: “Everyone has been really encouraging and supportive.

“Although we are competitors, this process has helped us to get to know and build friendships with each other.

“Reflecting on the past few weeks of preparation, I feel this experience has allowed me to grow not only as a contestant but as an individual which will benefit me throughout my life.” She said she would be honoured to become Miss Bermuda 2014 and have the opportunity to represent the Island and become a role model to other young ladies.

Although she believes all the contestants have their own ‘something special’ which sets them apart, it could be her positive outlook that wins her the crown.

She said: “I think different experiences set an individual apart [from others].

“Growing up you are bound to make mistakes, but how people learn and grow from them makes them a stronger person.

“Therefore knowing reflection is an important part of improving oneself, I think what makes me stand out is my ability to quickly take constructive criticism and turn it into a positive in order to do my best in this competition.”

She said her biggest role model and inspiration has always been her mother, who has gone through a lot in life, but persevered despite the obstacles.

“My mom is a strong women and has been a role model for me and my sister growing up,” she said. “She has taught me the importance of being independent and standing up for yourself. Although I was not always the perfect child she never gave up on me, which helped me to never to give up on my goals and dreams.

“My mother has such a kind spirit and way about her. If anyone I hope to be as wonderful, kind and nurturing as she is.”

You can see Miss Minors and the other contestants vie for the title of Miss Bermuda on Sunday, July 6. Tickets are available online at www.bdatix.bm.

From now until the pageant, The Royal Gazette will be featuring one of the eight Miss Bermuda contestants in Tuesday’s Lifestyle section.

Useful website: www.missbermuda.bm