Miss Finland Matilda Wirtavuori inspires others through mental health advocacy after winning titles in Tampere and Mexico

Seventeen-year-old Matilda Wirtavuori from Tampere faced a challenging battle with an eating disorder during her high school years. After years of struggling with this illness, she was crowned Miss Finland in September and recently won the title of Miss Universe Europe and the Middle East in Mexico. In addition to her new title, Wirtavuori secured a spot among the top 30 contestants at the Miss Universe competition, where she drew attention for her advocacy on mental health, a topic close to her heart.

Wirtavuori aims to share her journey, hoping her experiences will inspire others grappling with similar issues. “At 17, I cried in front of the mirror about my appearance. I was so unhappy with myself,” she reflects. From those vulnerable moments, she has transformed into a confident young woman who has competed successfully in front of thousands of people.

Wirtavuori emphasizes the importance of using her platform to help those who feel hopeless or lost. “It’s become my life’s mission,” she states. In her preparation for the competitions, she has focused significantly on personal branding, crafting a thoughtful image that includes her passion for mental health initiatives.

Moreover, she has engaged in extensive practice to hone her communication skills over the past three years, preparing for interviews in both Finnish and English. She recognizes that a strong personal brand is essential in the competitive beauty industry and emphasizes the necessity of self-reflection in her preparations. “Understanding who I am and what I want to achieve is crucial,” Wirtavuori concludes.