Juilee Kadam is an award-winning fashionista, body-positive model, and mental health advocate with a passion for academia. She recently won the title of Miss Asia Great Britain 2023 First Runner up. She shares her story with Gauri D. in a candid conversation.
Juilee Kadam represents most women who don’t always fit the criteria of tall and thin. She is beautiful because she believes so. Juilee won the esteemed title of Miss Asia Great Britain 2023, First Runner Up. Here’s a story of her journey.
Congratulations on your title! What could you tell us about the selection process for the pageant?
I have always been intrigued by pageants. In India, there is a lot of work that goes behind it. Grooming, training, securing sponsors and coaches. I never had time for it. But after moving to the UK, I came across this opportunity and I thought I had given it a chance too. I was skeptical in the beginning, but I got a call back for an interview, I just had to give some pictures and fill in details to enroll and answer a questionnaire. Three weeks later I got a call back. The rest is history.
How did you prepare for the pageant after being selected as a finalist?
I was quite clueless about what to do because I had never done pageants before. My family is in India and my friends were all busy with submissions. I had to do it all by myself. It was daunting but also satisfying.
What were the rounds for the pageant?
There were various rounds, the interview, national costume, talent round, prom gown round and of course the final walk in front of an audience. That is when you catch the judge’s eye. The pageant interview was one of the best interview rooms I’ve ever been in.
My mother arranged a beautiful Nauvari, complete with Nath, and Khopa. She mailed it to me in the UK. Her efforts ultimately paid off. I won the national costume round and Miss Congeniality title while wearing it.
What were the challenges you faced as you worked alone?
Most contestants had their teams. Make-up, styling, the whole shebang. I was on the other hand doing my submissions, scheduling my photoshoots, and styling my looks. A friend was nice enough to take my pictures for the photo shoot round.
Did you have a support system throughout the process?
My friends over here have been a huge emotional support for me. They have been my family away from home. At times when self-doubt crept in, they believed in me and made me believe in myself. My family was also very supportive, especially my father. He was the one who encouraged me to take this opportunity.
How was the environment backstage with other pageant contestants?
The environment backstage was very relaxed. Yes, there was a sense of competition, but it was not cutthroat. Everybody was friendly and warm. It was more about building relationships and creating bonds. I think this pageant is one of the few places in my life where I have seen so much feminine energy.
Did you feel that it was a fair upholding process in terms of inclusive and sustainable beauty?
I was disheartened once because I was not selected for Miss India. It made me question if beauty is about fitting into figures. I think that is what made it more inclusive. We were there because we were proud of ourselves. Loved the way we looked.
You won two months ago. What took you so long to make this announcement?
I have been in a very dark place. I have a history of depression, which was very much under control when I came to the UK. But in the last couple of weeks, my physical and mental health has taken a toll. I am going through a bad breakup and also had to undergo a major surgery, urgently during the pageant. I had to fly to India and back for it. Between all that and keeping up with academics, I needed time to get in the right headspace.
However, a few days ago I realized I needed to make a public announcement. It was unfair to show the world only my best days. Challenges are part of life and should be shared as well, to maintain the balance. So, I decided to come back on Instagram and announce it, every bit. And I’m glad I did. I love the response. Wishes and positivity are pouring in, and it makes me happy.
Social media can be very negative. How do you deal with that?
I did receive a lot of messages saying ‘how come somebody your size can win a beauty pageant’. My reaction is simple. It’s 2023! Everyone is beautiful. The concept of beauty has changed. It’s not about size, shape, and colour anymore. I am known for my boldness, personality, and thoughts. And I prefer it that way. This pageant celebrated me as a whole and not just my body. I am absolutely against diet culture. I am a ‘carb’ie Barbie and I love it. Negativity is everywhere. At the end of the day, it’s the people around you that matter and not the screens.
What are your plans for the future?
I have always been very clear about my future. I have loved the modelling industry. However, my true passion lies in academia. I enjoy writing. In the future, I see myself surrounded by young and curious minds, and being a part of the education system. This pageant has given me confidence and credibility to my voice.
What advice would you like to give your fellow humans?
There’s no such thing as standardized beauty. Pick up any art history book. Aesthetics will keep changing & our bodies have been just another medium to express those and exert control over people’s minds. It’s all about acceptance & acknowledgement of your inner self. Heal her/him/them. Love follows. And eat that damn doughnut!