Wings of Courage: Alexis Versaci Is Turning Grief Into Purpose
Alexis Versaci knows the power of stitching moments into meaning.
At 10 years old Alexis lost her dad in a trucking accident, her world shifted in an instant. The grief was overwhelming — but more than anything, it was isolating.
"Because I was so little, my experience with grief was so confusing," she says. "I always felt sad but never fully understood why. I also felt very alone because no one around me could fully understand how I was feeling."
Now 15, Alexis is turning her personal pain into purpose. As the reigning Ultimate International Miss Oceania Junior Teen 2026, she’s using her platform to raise awareness about childhood grief through her initiative, Wings of Courage.
“I never thought I would ever heal from losing my dad at such a young age,” Alexis shares. “But day by day, I am healing.”
Through her work, she wants other young people navigating loss to know that they are not alone. One of the most powerful moments in her own healing came at a grief camp run by Angel Families — a support service for bereaved children and families. "It was one of the best experiences ever. The feeling of being surrounded by other people that understand is like none other."
It’s that sense of community and understanding she’s now working to amplify — not just in Australia, but globally. With her title comes the opportunity to represent Oceania on the international stage in San Antonio, Texas. “I’m so grateful and so excited to take my grief awareness with me internationally. I’m hoping to create a lasting impact and start much-needed conversations.”
For Alexis, memories are treasures.
"Grief has taught me that although the person might be gone, the love is never lost," she says. "Even though my dad is no longer here, I still carry his love in my heart."
Her beach walks are her ritual — a moment of stillness and clarity. "It feels like it’s just me, my dog, and the open beach around us. My mind is clear, and I feel like I can just relax. The beach has always felt like my safe spot."
On the hardest days, she takes it step by step. Every memory is a foothold. Every day there is another climb and still she rises.
"When life feels heavy, I remind myself it’s okay to take one step at a time. I focus on what’s right in front of me instead of the whole mountain."
And for others in the middle of their own healing, her message is simple and powerful: "You are so amazing, and I know it feels so overwhelming and so hard, but I believe in you. There is no timeline to your healing, so cut yourself some slack and let yourself feel. You will have bad days and that's okay — but always remember good days are coming."
Through her platform, her voice, and her lived experience, Alexis is helping change how we talk about childhood grief. She’s proving that even in loss, there is strength. Even in sadness, there is hope. And even at 15, a young woman can lead others toward healing with courage, clarity, and heart.
If anyone is willing to share their experiences with grief or you just need some support reach out to me on Instagram @wings_of_courage_initative
As for supporting me on my journey to Texas definitely sponsorships and fundraising opportunities would be much appreciated
@alexis versaci