MISS UNIVERSE AUSTRALIA 2023 - MORAYA WILSON

Moraya Wilson was named our Miss Universe Australia 2023 on the 1st of September at our Final Event hosted by Sofitel Melbourne on Collins. The 22-year-old Melbourne based model is passionate about youth participation in sport and its benefits, stemming from her background as an international alpine ski athlete.

After only two months of preparation, Moraya jetted off to El Salvador in November 2023 to compete in the 72nd Miss Universe competition.

 Moraya took to the international stage for the first time in the Miss Universe Preliminary Final flaunting her swimwear and showing off a killer walk, crafted in the lead up by our official walking coach and Miss Universe Nicaragua 2008, Thelma Rodriguez.  

Following the swimwear portion of the event was Moraya’s ethereal walk in her custom Alin Le’ Kal gown. In Alin’s words “This exquisite dress is a labour of love, entirely hand-beaded with a mesmerising display of crystals, creating a luminous and captivating effect. The corseted mermaid silhouette ensures a figure that’s both flattering and dramatic. A lengthy train follows her every step, adding a sense of regal grandeur to the ensemble.”

 Finally, Moraya represented her home country with a stunning National Costume by Perth-based designer, Emma Daley. Drawing on one of Australia’s most prized assets, this dress is a celebration of our incredible and unique native wildflowers. This collection of flowers represents each state and territory and the magical connections to the Australian land, telling stories of cultural, historical and spiritual significance. Using colours symbolising the land, sea, sun and people, each flower is individually screen printed on raw silk organza appliquéd with sequins and feathers.

The Miss Universe International Final was held on Sunday 18th of November 2023, where 84 beautifully confident women from all over the world took to the biggest stage in the world to represent their countries.  

We are extraordinarily proud of Moraya placing as second runner up overall! Moraya wowed the selection committee and stole the hearts of viewers from around the world with not only her beauty but her powerful message advocating for youth participation in sport and the ways in which it can be beneficial.

On behalf of Miss Universe Australia organisation, we would like to congratulate Miss Nicaragua, Sheynnis Palacios on being crowned Miss Universe 2023.

Moraya is excited to continue pursuing her passion for modelling in 2024 and to continue to advocate for the benefits of youth participation in sport. She has recently graduated from her Bachelor’s Degree in Business Marketing and has some very exciting things coming soon – stay tuned to find out all Moraya accomplishes throughout her reign!