A talented drama graduate is taking Hertfordshire’s ‘County of Opportunity’ slogan to heart by bidding to become Miss England after being crowned Miss Hitchin – as well as raising as much money as she can for charity.
Talented drama graduate Kate Gee-Finch is aiming to grab the chance to compete for the prestigious title with both hands.
But first she must navigate the Miss England semi-finals next month – and she’s asking for your help to aid her fundraising for Variety, the Children’s Charity.
Kate, 26, wants to use her position as a platform to inspire others to be the best they can be.
She said: “I entered the Miss England industry after being inspired by previous winners – not only because of what the competitions gave them, but the goals they’ve achieved years later, and doors it opened.
“The Herts motto is ‘County of Opportunity’ – so I’m simply taking this opportunity to gain confidence in my ability to be the best I can be as a young woman today.
“I hope to inspire other girls in the area to do the same. The confidence I have gained already is amazing.”
Busy Kate last month finished working with Channel 5. See has also worked as a medical roleplay actress at Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge to help train students in patient communication skills.
She said: “I love the job, and would feel instantly prepared if I got an audition for Casualty – although a Downton Abbey-style drama is my real goal.”
At drama school in Birmingham, Kate held down three jobs – in a theatre box office, as a Disney Princess at children’s parties, and as a sales assistant in a designer store.
After obtaining a first-class honours degree, the experience gave her the idea to set up her own business supplying actors for princess-themed kids’ birthday parties – with the firm’s clients including children of celebrities.
Business-minded Kate emphasised that times have changed, adding: “If I reached the Miss England Finals in June I would love to do Irish dancing or perform a Shakespeare monologue for my talent round.
“Many of the girls involved in Miss England are doctors, lawyers, firefighers and actresses.
“It’s no longer the day of the bikini round – now it’s the ambitious woman.”
Kate is looking for a dress and programme sponsor. Email her at gee-finch@hotmail.co.uk
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