Sophie Kirana, an alumna of the Faculty of Economics and Business, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FEB UGM), made history by securing the 4th runner-up title and a spot in the Top 5 of Miss International 2024. Her success brought pride to Indonesia and FEB UGM on the prestigious international stage in Tokyo, Japan, on November 12, 2024.
Achieving recognition in a world-class beauty pageant is a significant achievement that requires perseverance and dedication. Sophie, a graduate of FEB UGM’s International Undergraduate Program (IUP) in Management (2019), expressed her gratitude for being entrusted to represent Indonesia and UGM internationally.
“To carry the name of Indonesia and UGM in Miss International 2024 is an extraordinary honor. I feel privileged to represent Indonesia’s culture, values, and spirit on the global stage,” she shared in an interview on Wednesday, December 11, 2024.
Journey to the World Stage
Sophie began her journey in the pageant world as a finalist of Puteri Indonesia 2024, representing the Special Region of Yogyakarta (DIY). She was crowned 1st Runner-up Puteri Indonesia Lingkungan, which led to her representing Indonesia at Miss International 2024.
“As a finalist, I embarked on this journey with advocacy focused on harmonizing environmental conservation and culture, promoting the use of herbal medicine and family medicinal plants, mangrove planting for climate change mitigation, and advocating for gender equality,” she explained.
Sophie’s motivation to participate in Miss International 2024 was strengthened by the vision of the pageant, which aligned with her life’s mission. The event’s theme, “Sustainability in Pageantry,” highlighted the importance of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Sophie believed Miss International 2024 provided an ideal platform to inspire real action toward global peace and a more sustainable future.
To prepare for the competition, Sophie underwent intensive training in public speaking, runway, and cultural discussions. She also focused on physical fitness and dietary discipline to maintain her health.
“I deepened my advocacy for mangrove conservation and gender equality through Rising Girls while exploring Indonesian cultures, such as Srikandi shadow puppets, traditional textiles, and local philosophies to showcase the nation’s identity,” she said.
Her efforts bore fruit when she conducted cultural and nature promotion during an audience with Indonesia’s ambassador to Japan. This cultural diplomacy culminated in her breakthrough performance on the grand finale night.
Foundation for Success
As Indonesia’s representative in Miss International 2024, Sophie faced the challenge of adapting to a new environment and interacting with different cultures. She managed the mental and emotional pressures of the pageant through meditation and spiritual practices.
“Spiritual support gave me strength and calmness to face the competition,” she said.
Effective time management was also critical. Using the time-blocking method, Sophie balanced her responsibilities as Puteri Indonesia Lingkungan with her intense preparations for Miss International 2024.
The values she learned at FEB UGM – integrity, collaboration, innovation, and social responsibility – were guiding principles during the pageant. The integrity instilled in her by her professors gave her the confidence to face a global audience. Her experience in teamwork during academic projects and committees helped her collaborate effectively on an international stage. In addition, the emphasis on innovation encouraged her to think creatively, especially when addressing issues such as environmental conservation and gender equality.
Sophie also highlighted how FEB UGM’s emphasis on social responsibility shaped her advocacy efforts during the competition, focusing on sustainability and women’s empowerment. “FEB UGM not only educated me academically but also equipped me with a strong character to represent Indonesia and UGM on the global stage,” she remarked.
Dream Big Without Fear
After her remarkable achievement at Miss International 2024, Sophie remains committed to advocating for environmental conservation and women’s empowerment on national and international platforms. She hopes her journey will inspire others, especially FEB UGM students, to contribute to the world positively.
“I hope that FEB UGM students will continue to make global contributions while upholding FEB UGM’s values of integrity, sustainability, and visionary leadership. They should embody UGM’s motto of ‘Locally Rooted, Globally Respected’ by upholding cultural roots and national values while daring to make a global impact,” she said.
Sophie concluded with an inspiring message for the younger generation:
“Don’t be afraid to fail and dream big. Every step we take and every choice we make is an opportunity to make a difference. Success is a process of preparation and experience that leads us to become better versions of ourselves, regardless of whether we achieve our ultimate goals,” she concluded.
“I hope that FEB UGM students will continue to make global contributions while upholding FEB UGM’s values of integrity, sustainability, and visionary leadership. They should embody UGM’s motto of ‘Locally Rooted, Globally Respected’ by upholding cultural roots and national values while daring to make a global impact,” she said.
Sophie concluded with an inspiring message for the younger generation: “Don’t be afraid to fail and dream big. Every step we take and every choice we make is an opportunity to make a difference. Success is a process of preparation and experience that leads us to become better versions of ourselves, regardless of whether we achieve our ultimate goals,” she concluded.
Reportage: Shofi Hawa Anjani
Editor: Kurnia Ekaptiningrum
Sustainable Development Goals
