Leah shapes up for national title tilt

On a mission to prove a healthy body is a beautiful body, Albany’s Leah Mieli has made it through to the Australian Supermodel of the Year grand final as a curve model.

After competing in heats in Perth, Ms Mieli found out last month she had won a place in the final in Bali in early February.

The personal trainer student fell into modelling by accident when trying to boost her own confidence a year ago.

She said she had not gone into the competition for fame but rather because it gave her the opportunity to speak through photos and encourage body confidence in others.

“When I found out I got to the grand final I burst into tears,” she said. “I honestly went into the competition as confident as I could but I felt deep down that I wouldn’t make it — I guess I was wrong.”

She said the competition had been challenging and she had faced hatred and criticism from people in a way she had never had to deal with before.

“I’ve also questioned myself a lot through this process,” she said.

“I’ve never met a girl who hasn’t struggled with body confidence issues and I want to show them that it’s just a rut you can get out of. I’m getting out of mine and so can they.”

With support from local businesses and her family, she is preparing for the grand final judging.