This week’s Miss England grand final, held at the Grand Station in Wolverhampton, celebrates a historic shift as finalists trade traditional evening gowns for their work and academic attire. The competition aims to highlight female achievement across a broad spectrum of careers, encouraging women to break stereotypes and pursue roles traditionally dominated by men.
Contestants have showcased their diverse professions, university studies, and career aspirations, embodying the belief that women can be both ambitious and feminine without fitting into a narrow “beauty pageant box.” From medical scrubs and military fatigues to laboratory coats and business suits, the finalists represent a wide array of vocations.
The 30 contenders include an RAF aviator, emergency services worker, playwright, and cadet; alongside veterinary and science students, midwives, podcasters, teachers, and models. Among them, Amy Joyce, a 20-year-old veterinary student from Sussex, reflects the unified spirit of the event: “Balancing veterinary medicine with Miss England hasn’t been easy, but it’s shown that you can be academic, compassionate, ambitious, and feminine all at once. You don’t have to choose just one dream.”
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Charlotte Yeung, a 25-year-old PhD scientist and top female gamer, shares her experience breaking down barriers: “I used to think my worlds had to be separate, but now I embrace being a scientist, gamer, and Miss England finalist. I want to inspire young women to know they can be all of these things.”
Another finalist, Chloe Nwankwo, a 19-year-old podcaster and former Royal Marine Cadet, highlights the empowering nature of her journey: “The cadets helped me build resilience and gave me the confidence to transform my pain into purpose by founding Blessed Youth, a movement to help young people overcome bullying.”
The contestants’ professional attire allowed judges to gain insight into their personal stories and achievements, emphasizing the competition’s evolving focus. Miss England director Angie Beasley stated, “This year’s finalists embody diversity and inspiration, and showcasing their careers has been a powerful addition to the competition.”
Fans can support their favorite finalist by voting through the free Miss England app, celebrating not just beauty but ambition and achievement.