Becoming Her: Arlette’s Journey of Courage, Confidence and Quiet Strength

There is a quiet confidence in Arlette Berry—one that doesn’t demand attention but naturally holds it. It’s something that becomes evident the moment she speaks. Measured, thoughtful and grounded, she carries a poise beyond her years. It’s not something that simply appeared—it’s something she has grown into, step by step, by choosing courage over comfort.

A student at Whitsunday Anglican School, Arlette is balancing school life with a growing presence in the modelling world as part of Brooke Lee Modelling in Mackay—two spaces that are shaping her confidence, discipline and sense of self.

One of the most defining moments in Arlette’s journey came when she stepped onto the stage for the first time through the Australia Galaxy Pageants.

“The part of my journey that has shaped me the most is stepping onto the stage for the first time,” she says. “As a first-time contestant, I was pushed outside of my comfort zone… but I embraced the experience fully.” At the time, Arlette was underage and not eligible to officially compete for the crown, but rather than stepping back, she leaned in.

“Despite that, I was honoured to be named the 2025 Galaxy Girl. That moment taught me that growth comes from courage, and that believing in yourself matters more than any title.”

For Arlette, strength hasn’t come from certainty—it has come from choosing to move forward even when she felt unsure. “A moment that made me realise my strength was during my first pageant,” she explains. “I felt nervous and unsure stepping into something completely new, but I chose to push through those doubts and give it my all.” That decision marked a turning point. “That experience showed me that I am capable of so much more than I think, and it helped me grow into someone who is more confident, resilient, and willing to take on new challenges.”

When asked to describe this current chapter of her life, Arlette doesn’t hesitate.

“If this chapter of my life had a title, it would be ‘Becoming Her.’ I am learning to grow into the person I aspire to be—building confidence, chasing my goals, and discovering my true potential.”

 It’s a phrase that captures not just where she is, but how she is approaching this season of her life—with intention, curiosity and a willingness to grow.

She is also deeply aware of the pressures facing girls her age, and the importance of being heard. “I wish more people truly listened when girls my age speak about the pressures we face and the importance of staying true to ourselves,” she says.

“Our generation is constantly surrounded by comparison and expectations, and our voices deserve to be heard because we are navigating a very different world.”

At the heart of her message is something simple but powerful. “Something that is often overlooked is how important it is for girls to feel accepted for who they are, without feeling the need to change.”

Like many young women, Arlette still experiences moments of nerves and uncertainty, but she has learned how to navigate them with intention. “When I feel nervous or unsure, I remind myself why I started and the goals I am working towards,” she explains. “What helps me find my voice is focusing on being authentic and not trying to be perfect. I think about how far I’ve come, and that gives me the confidence to keep going.”

Her future is being shaped by both passion and purpose. As a model with Brooke Lee Modelling, she is continuing to build her confidence and stage presence, while also working towards a career in dermatology. “Right now, I feel my passions growing in both modelling and my future career in dermatology,” she says. “I aspire to become a medical dermatologist, combining my interest in science with my desire to help others feel confident in their own skin.”

Beyond her personal goals, Arlette is already making an impact in her community. Through a recent Krispy Kreme fundraiser, she sold 80 dozen boxes and raised approximately $700 for batyr Australia, supporting Australian youth mental health. It’s a reflection of the values she hopes to carry forward. “The woman I hope to become is someone who is kind, honest, and loyal,” she says. “I hope she carries strength, confidence, and compassion, and uses those qualities to make a positive impact on others.”

As she prepares for her next step—travelling to Sydney to compete in the pageant beginning April 29, with events leading through to the crowning gala in early May—there is a sense that this is only the beginning. Not just of opportunities, but of a deeper journey into who she is becoming. “To my future self, I hope you never forget where you started and the hard work it took to get there,” she says. “No matter where life takes you, remember to stay true to who you are—kind, honest, and loyal. Keep chasing your dreams, keep giving back, and always believe in yourself.”

Arlette Berry’s story is not defined by titles or outcomes, but by the choices she continues to make—showing up, speaking up and stepping forward. In a world that often asks young women to be more, do more and compare more, she offers a quieter, more powerful message: be yourself, back yourself, and trust that who you are becoming is enough.