Lucrezia’s ‘a winner at heart’

Modelling practise, personal growth and “getting over the fear of being seen” has prepared Marlburian Lucrezia Bradley to tackle the world’s premier beauty pageant.

After stepping into beauty pageants and finding success through winning Miss National NZ 2024 and in a ‘glam ambassador’ role for Wellness Revive, Lucrezia will next grace the SkyCity Theatre stage in Auckland on June 22 to 24 for the 2025 Miss Universe NZ Grand Finals.

Despite last year’s successes, the Rangitāne o Wairau descendant and early childhood educator based in Auckland still considers herself a “bit of an amateur” as she steps onto the internationally recognised and increasingly competitive pageant stage.

“It has been an amazing experience getting to know myself and my purpose in life, which stepped up a huge level as Miss Universe is more well established, and so as a result there’s more sponsors and more on the line,” said Lucrezia.

“Everyone’s on that stage for a reason and there’s only ever been one New Zealand winner of the Miss Universe international pageant which we’ll hopefully change, but for me to be up there really standing proud with my advocacies, I’m already a winner at heart.”

The final weeks ahead of the pageant will keep Lucrezia on her toes, with catwalk and fitness practises fitted in between work, leading a Breast Cancer foundation bath soak fundraiser and “quality sleep”, something she says is crucial to her routine.

She credits her pageant efforts for helping her gain confidence every day.

“The fear of being on camera is the fear of being seen for your true self and being authentic, which is such a silly thing to be afraid of.

“Miss National was very much internal beauty and I’m bringing that with me as part of this Miss Universe journey as you can’t just put a mask on, you must be who you are all the time, and people will love you for that anyway.

“The most powerful women in my life have determination behind themselves and a really strong foundation, and I chose to represent the Breast Cancer Foundation this year because of my memories of my neighbour Chloe Rarity who was a beacon of warmth and kindness, and a true inspiration in my childhood.

“I’m being me and taking my family, friends and hometown with me wherever I go, and you’d be surprised what happens when you put your best foot forward in everything you do.”

Follow Lucrezia’s Miss Universe journey on her Facebook or Instagram page @Lucreziabradley