Laois woman competes for Miss Universe Ireland crown

Portlaoise woman Veronica Campelo will represent Laois at the final round of Miss Universe Ireland 2024 on Friday September 20.

Mrs Campelo (40) has lived in Portlaoise since 2019, and has previously won Miss Ireland 2022, Miss Emerald Isle 2020 and Miss British Elegance 2019.

The Miss Universe Ireland hopeful holds a business degree and works in Tuthill's newsagents in Laois shopping centre, while also managing a career as an actress and model. 

"The reactions from people locally has been amazing," Mrs Campelo said.

"People hear the news and come into the shop to congratulate me, and to ask me how they can vote. I've received well wishes from people all around the county, and in places I haven't even visited before!" she said.

Pictured: Mrs Campelo will represent Laois in the Miss Universe Ireland final on September 20.

"I first got into competing back in 2018, it was to bring my confidence up after a difficult breakup," Mrs Campelo.

"I was so surprised to have won, it was an amazing experience. Working to promote a good cause is at the root of these competitions, and it's something I do myself, so I really enjoy taking part," she explained.

Mrs Campelo regularly works with charities such as Breast Cancer Ireland, Pieta House and Sickle Cell Society Ireland through charity fashion show events.

"As a mother it's difficult to balance it all," Mrs Campelo explained.

"When I first heard about Miss Universe Ireland removing their restrictions, I was so excited. I'm forty and a married mother, and when I told my husband about it, he told me he would support me through the journey," she said.

For the first time ever, competitors within Miss Universe can be married or divorced, mothers or trans women, with no upper age limit of height requirements.

"I entered into the competing world while going through a hard time myself, and I want to be a positive influence on all woman who are going through a hard time at the moment. I want to show them that it is okay to not be okay," she said.

Pictured: Veronica Campelo.

"I want to be an inspiration and role model for my 1 year old little girl. In this every changing world we now live in I want to show her the right path to grow up on and give her ever opportunity to fulfil her dreams, while continuing to support the causes that are close to my heart," Mrs Campelo explained.

"It has always a dream of mine to be able lead and help others in need and looking for advice in life," she said.

27 finalists from all over Ireland will compete for the coveted Miss Universe Ireland crown on Friday September 20, at a spectacular ceremony.

This is the 73rd Miss Universe competition, with Mrs Campelo sponsored by Fashion House Ireland.

Current title holder Aisha Akorede will crown the winner, who will then represent Ireland at the 73rd Miss Universe final in Mexico City this November 16.

Previous winners include Roz Purcell, Joana Copper and current title holder Aishah Akorede.

To vote for Mrs Campelo in the Miss Universe Ireland final, download the MI Org app.