Last‑Minute Rush: Miss Universe Singapore 2018 Finals Tonight
The 15 toughest contenders in the Miss Universe Singapore 2018 finals are pulling the all‑in status right up until the final showdown. The ceremony is set for tonight inside the elegant One Farrer Hotel, the pageant’s official venue sponsor.
Sharin Keong’s “Busy‑but‑Blessed” Week
For 26‑year‑old Sharin Keong, who balances life as a preschool teacher with the demands of a beauty queen, the last week has felt like a full‑on marathon. “The place where my school meets parents falls right in the middle of my pageant prep,” she told The New Paper. “I finish the school day at 6 pm, then squeeze into rehearsals from 7 to 9 pm, every single day.”
Keong’s schedule is a tightrope walk, but she’s already proving she can juggle both worlds.
Rehearsals: Runway & Pose Practice
- Runway walk drills to boost confidence on the catwalk
- Pose sessions focusing on posture, facial expressions and arm placement
- Mentoring teammates—yes, she’s a real team player!
She’s not just a participant; she’s the go‑to guide for the other finalists, sharing how to refine their walk and poise.
Modeling Background & Confidence Statement
Keong’s journey began with winning the 2012 New Paper New Face modeling contest, followed by a stint on the reality TV show Supermodelme in 2014. “Women help women,” she says. “I’m not worried about anyone outshining me. What matters is owning that confidence, and that’s something you can’t pull out of thin air overnight.”
With the big night looming, the finalists are in full gear, bringing their best selves to the stage, ready to prove that this year’s Miss Universe Singapore is truly a class act. Good luck to everyone!
From Campus Chaos to Catwalk Camaraderie
Miss Ischelle Koo, a brand‑new freshman at the National University of Singapore, is juggling three big arenas: lectures, rehearsals, and risking a long visit to her mom after her recent major surgery. But that juggling act? It’s not just a circus—it’s a mash‑up of learning, laughter, and a dash of glow‑up.
Mixed Emotions, Big Excitement
“I’m flabbergasted—half thrilled, half hesitant—about the MUS walk of fame winding down,” Koo confided. 22 and already wearing a veiled crown, she’s felt the tug of semesters, makeup, and family obligations all at once. Yet, each day ends with the sweet satisfaction of “I did it.
What Makes the Journey Special
- Making‑up Minute‑to‑Minute: “It’s a whole different vibe from my 2016 Miss Supranational run—more brushes, more hair, more lights.”
- Got the Power Pose: “The runway was a stage, plus a stakeholder in who I am.”
- Learning lived Lessons: “Real soul‑searching doesn’t fit into a one‑week lesson plan—wear it like a badge!”
Through the responsibilities, Miss Koo has seen her peers shine, felt the craft’s depth, and realized that true confidence isn’t crammed— it’s cultivated. The smiles, the backstage sighs, and the moments of triumph as the spotlight faded together made her MUS story unforgettable.
Miss Jaslyn Tan: “Calling It a Tightrope Now”
After snagging the Miss Singapore Grand International crown in 2014 and smashing a runner‑up spot at Miss Teochew, 26‑year‑old realtor Jaslyn Tan is confessing that the pressure’s in full swing.
“Everyone’s knowing I’ve been in pageant circles forever, so people think I’ve got it nailed. Truth is, it feels heavier than before,” she said, wiping a bead of sweat from her brow. “There’s a lot of expectations—mine and theirs. I’m aiming to outdo myself this time around.”
Getting In Shape: Loo May Tia & Hilary Rupawalla’s Playbook
-
Loo May Tia (18, student, ex‑national rhythmic gymnast):
“I’ve been on a workout grind since last Saturday, and my plates are packed with chicken and fish. I make sure the food looks as good as it tastes—experimenting with different cooking styles and plating tricks.”
Her mum, Angela Lee (first runner‑up in MUS 1994), is the ultimate cheerleader. “She’s shown me the ropes of MUS, but the real lesson? Letting me dive into the journey myself.” -
Hilary Rupawalla (26, family lawyer):
“Balancing a full‑time job, endless photo shoots, rehearsals, and workouts has left my social life on the sidelines for the past two months.”
“But tonight’s grand finale? That’s the cherry on top. I’ve learned more about myself and just got to meet 14 amazing finalists.”
As the finalists gear up for the final showdown, they’re all juggling their own “real life” jobs while staying picture‑perfect for the stage.
Stay tuned for the drama that unfolds tonight—these contestants are truly living double lives, one where the pageant world happens in the glow of flashlights and the other in the hustle of everyday hustle.
