It's been a tough job but after weeks of searching, Sydney has selected its representative for the next Miss Chinese International pageant.
The contest, based in Hong Kong, showcases the talents of ethnic Chinese women from cities across the world.
A Sydney representative took out the competition a few years ago-- and this year's winner is hoping for a repeat.
Manny Tsigas has this report from the recent 2013 Miss Sydney Chinese pageant.
Finalist Monika Lee says she's always wanted to compete in a pageant since she was a child.
"When I was a kid I used to watch TVB when I lived in Hong Kong and I pretended to be part of the pageants, so it's been a lifelong goal."
Another finalist, Jenny Wu, says the pageant is more than just about appearances.
"I think during the show there's a lot of moments where you get to express what you believe about beauty, and there's a moment where each individual girl is able to express their own personality on stage. It's personality, the interior over the exterior."
From a field of more than 100 applicants, the finalists are whittled down to just 12.
And only one will be chosen to represent Sydney at next year's Miss Chinese International pageant in Hong Kong.
The pageant began with a brief introduction amid a parade of evening gowns...
Which was followed by a more detailed Question and Answer segment in a swimsuit
Finalist Phyllis Dai says the contest also gave participants a chance to shine on a cultural level.
"I was born overseas and I came here when I was 11. I don't have much knowledge for the Chinese culture any more. By being in this competition it helps me to show what I have. I'm proud of my Chinese background, and to show the public that Chinese women can do anything (laughs)."
That was the theme during the talent section-- ranging from dance to poetry and even painting.
But at the end of the night there could be only on winner.
20-year-old commerce student Phyllis Dai.
"It's unbelievable, I can't believe it, but I'm so happy about what I've achieved, and I'm really happy I got to share this moment with these 12 beautiful girls."
But that field will be slightly bigger in Hong Kong -- where a new wealth of beauty will be on display.
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