Exclusive Interview: Miss Heritage Croatia 2024 Marija Vukašina

In this exclusive PAGEANT Circle interview, get to know more about her journey, aspirations, and advocacy.

 

 

My name is Marija Vukašina, and I am currently 21 years old, soon to be 22. I am a model, beauty queen, blogger, and an economics student.

 

I was born and raised in Zadar, a picturesque Croatian city near the Adriatic Sea. My childhood was filled with wonderful memories—surrounded by a big family, great friends, and engaging in various sports. I completed high school at Privatna Gimnazija Nova.

 

At 18, I moved to Zagreb to pursue my college education, but my heart still belongs to my hometown. Choosing a favorite place in Zadar is difficult, but I particularly love the Church of St. Donatus, the Sea Organ, and The Greeting to the Sun. The Sea Organ is a fascinating architectural masterpiece that creates music using sea waves—a must-visit for anyone exploring my city.

 

 

My journey in pageantry started when I was 17 years old. I was invited to compete in a regional pageant in my hometown, even though I had no prior experience in beauty pageants or modeling. Although I didn’t win anything at that time, it was my first step into the world of pageantry and modeling.

 

Fast forward to today, at 21, I have earned eight sashes, all through dedication and hard work. This September, I am honored to compete at Miss Heritage Global 2024, my second international pageant.

 

Additionally, I will be making my acting debut in a Croatian TV drama, playing the role of a 1960s model. This marks my first experience in acting—an exciting opportunity for the future.

 

My journey so far feels surreal, but I am incredibly grateful. I hope to inspire young women to pursue their dreams and step into a brighter future.

 

Tell us about your first pageant experience.

Interestingly, my first modeling job came just a few days after my first pageant. I was still new to the industry and had no idea how to walk a runway. While it was difficult to relax on stage, I truly enjoyed the Q&A portion, where I could express my personality.

 

After the pageant, Croatian designer Ela Duševi? booked me for a fashion show and bikini shoot. I still have those pictures from when I was just 17—it’s amazing to see how much I have grown since then!

 

 

Yes, I believe in the power of hard work, consistency, and self-belief. My advocacy is to inspire young women to chase their dreams without fear.

 

I also strongly support mental health awareness. Before entering pageantry, I was a very anxious girl who avoided public exposure. Competing in pageants helped me overcome my fears, and now, I want to use my platform to share a powerful message with young girls—you are stronger than your fears.

 

 

My motivation comes from within. I love what I do, and that passion keeps me going, even on difficult days.

 

From a young age, my mother has been my greatest inspiration. She taught me the values of strength, love, gratitude, humility, and confidence.

 

Name three things you can’t live without.

Family, friends, and love.

 

 

I am happiest when I am doing what I love and when I see people around me achieving their dreams.

 

 

I have many hobbies! Modeling is my passion, but I also love blogging on the Lux Vitalis platform, where I write mostly about fashion and beauty. Currently, I am working on a blog about mental health, a topic very close to my heart.

 

I also enjoy dancing, which helps me relax and stay fit. Learning new languages is another passion of mine—I speak Croatian, English, and Italian, and I am currently learning Spanish and Turkish.

 

 

I believe in body positivity and self-acceptance. If someone chooses to have plastic surgery to feel more confident, I respect their decision. However, I personally embrace my natural features and believe we don’t need to be "perfect" to be beautiful.

 

If you decide to make a change, do it for yourself, not because of societal expectations.

 

 

Yes! I believe the world has a special place for everyone. Beauty pageants are about the message we send to society, and transgender women have a powerful message—to embrace your true self without fear.

 

 

I believe we don’t need a superpower to be a hero. My superpower is my heart, because love and compassion have the power to change the world.

 

If you were stranded on a deserted island (with food and water provided), what two items would you bring?

As a Christian, my faith is my strength. I would bring my Christian necklace and a Bible.

 

 

It represents dedication, inspiration, and the fulfillment of my mission.

 

 

I believe that every person is unique and valuable. When I set my sights on a goal, I give it my all, even during the toughest moments. Dedication is the key to success.

 

When I started this journey, people doubted me, but I refused to listen. Instead, I pursued my dreams, and now, I stand here proving that you can achieve anything with perseverance.

 

 

Croatia is a breathtaking country filled with stunning islands, crystal-clear rivers, and national parks. Our Adriatic Sea is one of the clearest in the world, and our historic towns are rich in culture and tradition.

 

I come from Zadar, a city famous for its Sea Organ and St. Donatus Church, which dates back to the 9th century. If you love nature, places like Plitvice Lakes National Park and Krka are must-visit destinations.

 

Croatia is also home to delicious traditional food, including olive oil, fresh seafood, and wheat-based delicacies. Our national football team is ranked among the best in the world!

 

Croatia holds a special place in my heart, and I am proud to represent it.

 

 

Every journey begins with one small step. The beginning is the hardest, but if you push through, it gets easier.

 

One of my favorite quotes is:

"Trying and failing is better than not trying at all."

 

Don't be afraid—believe in yourself. The Universe rewards those with determination and a strong heart.