Taking part in Miss Bikini Ireland 'has really boosted my confidence'

A young woman from Mullingar has found that participating in the Miss Bikini Ireland has been great for her self confidence.

Ciara Mee (age 20) is studying childcare and has decided she also wants to pursue modelling. “When I heard about Miss Bikini Ireland, I thought it would have been a brilliant opportunity and get me started on the right route,” said Ciara.

“So far my journey has been very exciting, it has really boosted my confidence.

“That was one of the reasons I took the opportunity – to help me gain confidence and to really challenge myself.

“I have always been shy, and my confidence would be low, and by doing this competition I am putting myself out of my comfort zone.”

Ciara says the gym is her favourite place to go, and when she’s there she forgets everything else as she focuses on working out.

“Doing Miss Bikini Ireland has made me think about my diet more, encouraged me to eat healthier, to have a goal, and to stick by it,” said Ciara.

“Knowing that I have a competition coming up helps me stay focused and go to the gym even more.”

The Covid-19 pandemic has affected the Miss Bikini Ireland contest the same as it has hit everything else, and Ciara was disappointed not to meet and get to know the other participants.

She acknowledged that the organisers have done the best they could to press on with the event, and they have organised Zoom fitness classes, workshops and photoshoots.

“It is hard to keep motivated during the pandemic, but to have a healthy mind is important,” said Ciara.

“I love to go out on walks and runs to stay fit. Not having the gyms open has not stopped me from doing home workouts.

“We have completed our workshops – my first time getting in front of a camera – and I absolutely loved it! And I definitely knew I wanted to go ahead with modelling.

“I love the sense of freedom, the fact I can be myself in front of a camera and not feel ashamed.

“Standing in front of a camera for the first time, and to be in a bikini, was nerve-wracking, but I loved every second of it. It helped me build my confidence and to know that no matter what body size you are, you should always love yourself, and be proud of who you are.

“I’ve always loved this quote and it keeps my head up – ‘body confidence doesn’t come from trying to achieve the perfect body; it comes from embracing the one you’ve already got’.”

Ciara is one for more than 50 contestants from all over Ireland in this year’s Miss Bikini Ireland and she is asking for votes to help her make the top six: “It would mean a lot to me. Thank you,” she said.

The winner of the Ireland competition gets a paid-trip to the world finals of Swimsuit USA International.

To vote for Ciara, go to: pageantplanet.com.