By Brendan Rees
A Berwick school teacher is celebrating after winning her way to the preliminary finals of the Miss World Australia 2020 title.
“This is such an incredible opportunity and I’m just absolutely thrilled,” Cassie Van Zeyl said.
The 26-year-old is among 50 young hopefuls vying for the coveted crown – but Cassie says the opportunity to help better the lives of Aussie kids was more important.
The Brentwood Park Primary School teacher has been busy raising funds for Variety – The Children’s Charity, as part of the pageant’s ‘Beauty with a Purpose’ journey.
Cassie has about 30 to 40 Berwick businesses on board with sponsorship but is encouraging more people to donate.
Through her online fundraising page, Cassie has raised just over $1,700 and hopes to achieve her goal of $10,000 before the preliminary finals on 4 April in Melbourne.
“I honestly love children and I have always wanted to empower students with low self-esteem and push their spirits so high that they strive to achieve their dreams,” her fundraising page says.
“I’m trying so hard,” she said. “I really need help spreading the word to raise as much money as possible to support”.
Cassie is following in the footsteps of her Mum, who competed in a different version of Miss World.
“This time I get to do both – raise money for the sick children and compete for the title of Miss World!”
Cassie, who has been working with children for 13 years, said giving kids the support and love they deserved had been a lifelong dream.
“I always wanted to be able to support children’s fundraising and plan events to help sick children,” she said.
Cassie is hosting a ‘Glitz and Glamour’ family cocktail party on 28 March at the Knox school pavilion from 7.30pm to 11.30pm. All welcome to attend.
“One person’s donation can literally change a child’s hopes and dreams”.
To donate visit: https://miss-world-australia-2020.raisely.com/cassie-van-zeyl
To book the cocktail party visit: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/cassies-mwa-fundraising-cocktail-party-tickets-91580348287
