Lecture Notes: Maria Thattil – Miss Universe Australia 2020
Key Event and Achievements
Year 2020: Maria wins Miss Universe Australia.
Significance: Became the third woman of color in 69 years to win this title.
Professional Roles: Queer and sex-positive author, TV presenter, podcaster, and host.
Personal Background
Family and Childhood: Closeted child of working-class Indian immigrants; one parent was an ex-priest.
Early Experiences: Experienced racial prejudice and felt pressure to conform to certain beauty standards.
First Crises: At a young age, was told she was a "monster with dirty skin," led to trying skin-bleaching creams.
Challenges and Societal Pressures
Issues with Skin and Beauty: Felt the need to conform to conventional beauty standards (e.g., skin bleaching).
Struggles with Sexuality: Conservative upbringing made it difficult to accept and express her queer identity.
Ambitions and Career: Followed a conventional career path in corporate HR before realizing it wasn't fulfilling.
Turning Point and Miss Universe Journey
Year 2019-2020: Saw an Indian-Australian win Miss Universe Australia, igniting her own ambition.
Lockdown Challenges: Emphasized the difficulties of competing during COVID-19 lockdowns.
Creative Solutions: Used digital platforms to host empowerment series on Instagram live, gaining substantial viewership.
Community Support: Received initial support from her family, even using a church hall for rehearsal videos.
Dealing with Racism and Discrimination
Social Media Harassment: Faced significant online abuse and hate speech.
Resilience: Decided that her differences made her more suited to be in the competition.
Public Discourse: Authored columns and articles that led to a book deal and more public speaking opportunities.
Key Messages and Insights
Daily Decisions: Realized that life-changing moments happen through cumulative, everyday decisions.
Self-Identity: Emphasized the importance of embracing one's identity and not conforming to others’ expectations.
Empowerment: Encouraged taking control of one's narrative and opportunities for greatness.
Personal Reflections and Outcomes
Empowerment Series: Enhanced public speaking and advocacy skills through digital empowerment series.
Visibility: Became visible and powerful despite facing discrimination.
Continued Advocacy: Continues to fight for representation and visibility for marginalized communities.
Courage: Stressed the importance of courage in facing societal norms and discrimination.
Closing Thoughts
Main Takeaway: Realize and seize everyday moments for cumulative greatness.
Affirmations: Ends with affirmations “I can, I am, and I will,” encouraging self-belief and continuous striving.
Quotes
Significant Quote: “You don’t change your life by waiting for a propeller moment; you change your life when you realize that opportunities for greatness don’t always come across as great.”