'I want to help children become leaders and changemakers': Miss International Australia Bella Dela Cruz on using her crown to make a difference

bella dela cruz

Filipino-Australian beauty queen brings her advocacy for education and empowerment to the Miss International 2025 stage in Tokyo. Image Credit: Miss International/ Bella Dela Cruz

Filipino-Australian economist Bella Dela Cruz is set to represent Australia at the Miss International 2025 pageant in Tokyo this November, a milestone that marks both a personal achievement and a continuation of her purposeful journey in pageantry.


Key Points
  • Born in the Philippines and raised in Australia, Bella carries both cultures with pride. She says her Filipino roots taught her resilience, while her Australian upbringing encouraged her to speak up and embrace diversity.
  • Bella’s advocacy focuses on providing educational support for underprivileged children. She has partnered with local organisations to distribute school supplies, fund scholarships, and create mentorship programs that encourage students to stay in school.
  • Miss International 2025 will be held on November 27 at the Yoyogi National Gymnasium in Tokyo, Japan, with around 70 candidates from across the globe vying for the crown.

An advocate for education and economic opportunity, Bella Dela Cruz uses her platform to empower young people, providing access to financial literacy, training, and mentorship to help break the cycle of poverty. “Education is the foundation for change,” she says. “Through this platform, I want to collaborate with youth organisations to equip the next generation with tools that will help them not just to survive but to become leaders and changemakers.”

Listen to our podcast to get to know Bella Dela Cruz and hear more about her journey and advocacy.


📢 Where to Catch SBS Filipino

🔊 On Air – Tune in to SBS Filipino on radio stations across Australia and website live stream, and TV Channel 302 from 10 AM to 11 AM AEST daily.

📲 Catch up episodes and stories – Visit sbs.com.au/filipino or stream on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Youtube Podcasts, and SBS Audio app.

📣 Follow Us on Social Media – Stay updated by following us on Facebook and Instagram.


Share
Follow SBS Filipino

Download our apps
SBS Audio
SBS On Demand

Listen to our podcasts
Independent news and stories connecting you to life in Australia and Filipino-speaking Australians.
Understand the quirky habits of Aussie life.
Get the latest with our exclusive in-language podcasts on your favourite podcast apps.

Watch on SBS
SBS News in Filipino

SBS News in Filipino

Watch it onDemand