Kickboxer named ‘Miss Northampton Inspiration’ targets national crown as she encourages youngsters ‘to follow their dreams’

Gaia Buttitta has been crowned Miss Northampton Inspiration.

A woman who has been named Miss Northampton Inspiration is hoping to inspire young people to ‘follow their dreams’.

Gaia Buttitta already has the local title, but now has her sights set on the Miss Inspiration Great Britain crown.

The 20-year-old used to live in London where she was a model before moving north for university.

Gaia used to be a model when she lived in London.

Now Gaia who wanted to ‘do something more’, has become involved in the pageantry industry.

The management student who studies at the University of Northampton said: “It is a beauty contest but it’s all about being an inspiration and creating a positive impact.

“I wanted to do something more and show who I am and what I do, what I am trying to do.

“I am trying to inspire and motivate young people, not just young women.

“I want them to always have dreams and follow them.”

Gaia draws on her own experiences to help her succeed at the three events that make up the Miss Inspiration competition.

She added: “One event is dedicated to dressing in a way that represents you.

“For me personally that is my kick boxing uniform.

“I am a fighter and a fighter in every way.

“I used to get bullied so that always dragged me down.

“Started doing martial arts, which changed my point of view completely.

“It made me feel stronger inside and outside and gave me the will to stand up for myself.

“I use my personal experience to tell younger people to follow their dreams and to not listen to other people saying and doing things to bring them down.”

As a competition Miss Inspiration aims to help contestants grow in confidence and knowledge to succeed in the pageantry industry.

Gaia would progress to Miss World if she beats 10 to 15 other women to win the national Miss Inspiration in April.

To be successful at the competition, Gaia will need to impress judges in the boot camp round and the ball gown round, as well as the dressing in a way that represents her round.

Gaia said: “I already have a ball gown, it’s at the tailors.

“But I will need a more formal dress for the interview for the represent yourself round.

“I like going in big so my gown will be very long at the back.”

For Gaia, becoming part of Miss Inspiration was a way to be a better role model.

She added: “I found that role models sometimes give out the wrong message. I thought if I become one I can create my own.

“My message is just to follow your dreams and stick to your own values.”