FROM lecture theatre to stage, Alexandra Britton will represent Sutherland Shire in a national pageant that recognises young women for more than being a pretty face.
Ms Britton, 22, of Gymea Bay, throws her sash on at the final of Miss World Australia this month.
From August 27-30, she will compete for the crown against nine other NSW finalists in Perth.
Miss World is the largest and longest-running international beauty pageant.
Launched in 1951, it carries the motto "beauty with a purpose", to support global children's charities.
It encourages young women to use their talent and compassion to become role models as charity ambassadors.
Ms Britton is studying education at the University of Notre Dame, Sydney.
She has raised more than $8000 for children's charity Variety, and has a particular passion for working with children with special needs.
"While studying, I've seen and heard of some of the struggles and misfortunes young children face, not only in our community but across Australia," Ms Britton said.
"I decided that being a primary school teacher wasn't enough for me.
"I wanted to reach out to more children.
"Miss World Australia caught my attention when I researched how big the organisation was.
"My ambition is to make as much difference as I can to as many children's lives."
She said she would like to establish a Sutherland Shire charity that focuses on child education and welfare.
