Miss Grand Netherlands 2018 took a rocking start with twelve finalists. However, due to an unfortunate turn of events, one of the finalists, Deborah Van Hemert, had to back off. Now, only 11 finalists remain as the coronation night nears us.

The 11 finalists are enjoying every bit of the pageant and are working hard to get closer to the crown. The reigning queen Miss Grand Netherlands 2017, Kelly Van Den Dungen is also spending time with the delegates, giving them tips and sharing her own experience with the girls. The Candidates of Miss Grand Netherlands 2018 also had a chance to enjoy an official photo shoot with the reigning queen.

But, it’s time we get to know each and every one of them personally. So here is Miss Grand Netherlands 2018 finalist Hannah Potuyt’s future plans, and past struggles.

Q. How does it feel to be a delegate of Miss Grand Netherlands 2018?

It’s exciting! I am so happy to see the enthusiasm of all the girls to support the vision of Miss Grand International. It is demanding in the sense that it requires all your determination, focus and attention - besides the things that you normally do in life, but I know that this journey is going to be very rewarding because of all the new experiences it will create.

Q. What is the best lesson you’ve learnt that has shaped your life?

I learned not to take my life or those of people around me for granted. Losing my father 2 years ago changed my entire life and also made me realize how important it is to be helpful, kind and genuine every day, because tomorrow is not promised to any of us.

Q. What is the one thing that keeps you going and inspires you to be the best version of yourself?

I love to read a lot, and I read a lot about what is going on around the world. Most of the times, it breaks my heart. We have so many privileges and freedom here in the Netherlands. Something that is not granted to everyone everywhere. With this realization, I am always reminded that my life is not something “just to be lived out”, but that it’s meant to have a positive impact on those in my surroundings and those who are less fortunate than I am.

Q. Other than the Miss Grand Netherlands crown, what do you want to achieve from this competition?

I know how fragile life can be. How we cannot live to take anything for granted. We are meant to be a light to others and with this competition I want to carry out the urgency of helping others and also the fulfillment you get from it. Currently I am supporting the Netherlands Refugee Foundation. The work that they do is so brave!

Q. We’re sure that this competition is just another milestone in your life. What is that one thing that you consider your life goal?

I consider graduating from my Master’s Degree at the age of 20 as a real milestone. This was during the time that my father became very ill and passed away. The fact that I was still able to keep working hard made myself, my family and him very proud (I’m sure of it!)

Q. How would you like to represent yourself at the national stage at Miss Grand Netherlands 2018?

As a shining light! I am excited to convey my heart and character in the form of a speech and hope to inspire everyone around me about what it means to be a person that looks to serve others instead of living a life solely for myself.

Q. Who is your idol, and what values of theirs do you wish you could inculcate in your own life, and teach the next generation?

My parents, definitely. Both of them are great leaders and teachers, and I am very grateful for the life lessons that they have taught me. They showed me how meaningful it is to invest in others, to run the extra mile and put your own interests on the background sometimes. I really honor them for that!

Q. If you could be invisible for a day, how would you like to spend it?

I would love to see the inside of the White House and shortly observe how political meetings are being held. I’m very curious you know. It’s also a great possibility to travel to beautiful places, such as the 7 Wonders of the World, I wouldn’t have to get in line for anything!

Also, I would obviously pull a few pranks on my friends. Can’t leave that one out.

Q. Would you like to share your most special childhood memory with us?

My most special childhood memory is the exact moment I met my best friend, which is now 11 years ago. It was a short conversation of just two sentences, but from that point on we have build up a great, life lasting friendship. I know my life would be very different if we had not met each other when we were younger. And ever since we made so many memories together, so I wouldn’t be able to just pick one.

Q. What is your advocacy, can you tell us more about it?

I am all about research and education. I love to write, teach and speak at events. We can easily assume the things that we hear around us for reality and truth, which then shapes the collective psychology. I always advocate to be critical and to make sure to ask questions first. Out of many things that we should and could be, make sure that being an objective researcher is one of your priorities. Our mental frame affects our behavior, which plays a crucial role in either preventing or stimulating different issues, such as wars or discrimination.

I love that the Netherlands Refugee Foundation also provides education to children who can’t go to school because of dangerous circumstances. I can’t stretch enough how important this is in my opinion.

Q. What is the one thing you can label as your guilty pleasure?

I love Japanse anime and Korean dramas and every time I’ll tell myself that I’m gonna sleep early this night, I turn on another episode. Those cliffhangers! But... I’m still always in time for work the next day, hehe.

Q. If you are granted 3 wishes right now, what would you ask for?

A world filled with a vision of unity, humility and collective moral values, despite our differences. I don’t think that wish is too big :)

I also love, love, LOVE avocado’s, so a tree that’s always full of it and free to pick from is my ultimate dream.

The ability to fly. Really, how awesome is that?! I know I’m not the only one who wishes for it!

Q. Lastly, is there any message that you would like to give to your fans at Angelopedia?

Thank you for simply following Miss Grand Netherlands! I wouldn’t have the opportunity to be so open about all this if it wasn’t for you guys!