Asha Ryan Founder of Ultimate Pageants Australia
- Derek Tokarzewski
- Apr 22
- 8 min read
Updated: Apr 25
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine pageant interview with an incredible Asha Ryan Founder of Ultimate Pageants Australia
Full name: Asha Ryan
Pageant Name: Ultimate Pageants Australia
Position: Director & Founder
Year system was created: 2024
Charity system supports: Heart Foundation Australia, Perth Children's Hospital, however encourages contestants to support charities they hold close.
Countries or states system has representation in: Australia
Home Country or State: Western Australia
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: To those unfamiliar with your pageant system please tell us what is it about?
Ultimate Pageants is a modern Australian pageant system that empowers girls and women through a blend of on-stage competition and personal development. We celebrate individuality, creativity, and community impact, supporting contestants at every stage of their journey. More than just a pageant, it's a platform for growth, confidence, and authentic self-expression.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: Tell us what inspired you to start your system?
After years of working in and competing across various Australian pageant systems, I was inspired to create something that truly reflected the elements I loved most—community, creativity, and personal growth. I wanted to develop a system that offered more than just crowns and sashes, one that would support girls and women through every stage of their pageant journey with real purpose and empowerment at its core.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: Please tell us the founding story of the system.
Ultimate Pageants was born from a deep desire to create a space where contestants feel genuinely seen, supported, and celebrated. I took the lessons, highlights, and gaps I observed in the industry and shaped them into a transformative platform that goes beyond tradition. With a focus on inclusion, creativity, and development, I launched Ultimate Pageants as a hybrid-style competition tailored to meet the evolving needs of the modern Australian pageant community.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: What was the vision and the goal in the beginning while creating your pageant.
The vision was clear from the beginning: to build the Ultimate pageant system—a space that supports, uplifts, and inspires contestants of all ages and backgrounds. The goal was to redefine pageantry by combining fun, glam, and professionalism with opportunities for personal and community impact, ensuring that every contestant walks away feeling empowered and accomplished.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: Please tell us about yourself. (Personal, non pageant)
I’m a Project Officer in my day job, and passionate pageant coach. I love all things sparkle and glamour, which is what draws me to pageantry. I’m also a heart health advocate as a result of my personal heart journey. I use my personal journey to inspire others and show them that no matter the challenges we face, we can keep moving forward. Through both my pageant experiences and health journey, I aim to empower others to embrace their true selves and pursue their dreams with resilience.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: Please tell us about your education.
I am a high school graduate. While I didn't pursue formal higher education, I’ve always valued learning and continued my education through hands-on experiences. My growth has come from practical knowledge, especially in areas like coaching, leadership, and communication, which have been essential for my career in pageantry. I’ve also focused a lot on personal development to ensure I have the tools to guide others effectively.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: What does women Empowerment means to you?
To me, women’s empowerment is all about fostering confidence, independence, and self-worth in women, no matter their background or circumstances. It’s about creating environments where women can lift each other up, celebrate what makes them unique, and pursue their dreams without fear of judgment or limitation. Empowerment means feeling supported and free to be authentic in all aspects of life. I strive to help women find their voices, build confidence, and break down barriers through my work in pageantry and coaching.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: Tell us about your personal pageant history.
My pageant journey began in 2019, and since then, I’ve had the honor of holding three National Miss Titles. I’ve competed in numerous Glitz pageants, both online and in person, and each experience has contributed to my growth as a competitor and coach. For me, pageantry is about more than just competition—it’s about personal growth, empowerment, and self-expression. These experiences have shaped how I approach coaching and have fueled my passion for helping others achieve their goals in pageantry.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: What inspired you to do your first pageant?
I decided to enter my first pageant because I saw how pageantry could be a powerful tool for boosting confidence and giving women a platform to share their stories. I wanted to challenge myself and prove that I could step outside my comfort zone. It was also a way to connect with others who were passionate about self-expression. Little did I know, entering that first pageant would spark a lifelong passion for personal growth, pageantry, and empowering others to do the same.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: Over the years what Country, state or city the competition took place and why?
Ultimate Pageants held its inaugural National Final in January 2025 in Perth, Western Australia—our hometown and the heart of our pageant family. We chose WA as our base to uplift and grow the local pageant community, which has often been underrepresented in national systems. Our goal is to continue hosting the event in WA annually, offering consistent opportunities for growth and celebration in this beautiful part of the country.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: Tell us what was special about each years competition. (Location, sponsors, audience, contestants and why)
Our very first National Final in 2025 was incredibly special as it marked the beginning of our legacy. Held in Perth, it brought together contestants from all over Australia who embodied the spirit of empowerment, creativity, and community. We collaborated with passionate local sponsors and businesses, offering unique prizes and experiences. The audience was vibrant and supportive, and every contestant walked away with a crown, sash, and treasured memories—setting a strong foundation for years to come.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: What cultural significance has your pageant?
Ultimate Pageants holds cultural significance as a modern, inclusive celebration of Australian beauty, diversity, and ambition. It provides a platform for voices of all backgrounds to be heard and celebrated while promoting the values of kindness, respect, and community involvement. Our goal is to positively shape the culture of pageantry in Australia by placing authenticity and impact at the forefront.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: How long hours/days is the competition.
Our National Final runs over three days, with a full schedule of rehearsals, workshops, social events, and stage competitions. However, the pageant journey begins months before with digital submissions and preparation, including Portfolios, Community Portfolios, and coaching support. This extended timeline gives contestants the chance to grow, prepare thoroughly, and truly enjoy the full Ultimate experience.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: What are the competitors being judged on during the competition?
Contestants are judged across several key areas including their Portfolio (which showcases their story and aspirations), Interview (focusing on communication and self-expression), Fun Fashion, Themewear, and Formal Wear. Each area celebrates different aspects of confidence, creativity, and poise. Optional segments like Talent, Headshot, and Community Involvement give contestants further opportunity to shine and showcase their individuality.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: How do you select your judges and who are they?
Our judges are carefully selected from the Australian pageant community and include a mix of past and current titleholders, directors, coaches, and photographers. We aim to create a diverse panel for each competition, ensuring a well-rounded and fair evaluation of all contestants. Each judge brings unique insight and experience, allowing us to honour both traditional and modern elements of pageantry.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: What kind of experience can contestants expect during the competition?
Contestants can expect a high-energy, supportive, and enriching experience from start to finish. Pageant weekend includes more than just the on-stage competition—it’s filled with fun rehearsals, social events, empowering workshops, and bonding moments with fellow contestants. Everyone walks away with a crown, sash, and a heart full of unforgettable memories.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: Do contestants have to support and volunteer for any cause or charity either before the competition or during their reign?
While not mandatory, contestants are strongly encouraged to get involved with their communities and causes they are passionate about through our Community Portfolio section. Our reigning Queens are invited to continue this work during their reign, serving as ambassadors and changemakers within the Ultimate family and beyond. These efforts not only enrich their experience but also leave a lasting mark on the world around them.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: Does the system have sponsors?
Yes, Ultimate Pageants proudly collaborates with local Australian businesses as sponsors and event partners. Each event features different sponsors, giving us the chance to highlight diverse brands, talents, and services within our community. These partnerships are more than just commercial—they’re about showcasing local pride and building lasting connections within the pageant world.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: Please tell us little bit about each winner from over the years and what they accomplished through out their reign.
Our 2025 Royal Court includes: Olivia, Ultimate Tiny Miss Australia (age 2), and Kamea, Ultimate Little Miss Australia (age 4), who have represented their titles with joy and confidence. Audrey, Ultimate Junior Miss Australia (age 10), and Alexis, Ultimate Pre-Teen Miss Australia (age 12), have been active in their communities and school events. Georgia, Ultimate Teen Miss Australia (age 14), has been a strong role model for youth. Alannah, Ultimate Miss Australia (age 24), has supported local initiatives and appearances. Abbey, Ultimate Mrs Australia (age 28), and Paige, Ultimate Ms Australia (age 32), have used their titles to promote empowerment, sisterhood, and community engagement. Together, they’ve built a supportive and inspiring court.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: What are some fun events you've done with your Queens?
Since their crowning, our Queens have participated in official photoshoots, workshops, and fun social gatherings that help strengthen their bond. They’ve built a beautiful sisterhood, supported each other through their journeys, and remained connected through our vibrant online community. Whether it's preparing for appearances or celebrating personal milestones, the experience is designed to be both meaningful and memorable.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: What are your plans for your system in 2025 and beyond?
Looking ahead, we plan to continue expanding our reach through annual National Finals in WA, while also running online competitions and non-contracted events. We’re passionate about collaborating with other Australian pageant systems to share resources, spotlight more contestants, and create opportunities for growth across the community. Our mission is to keep evolving while staying true to our values of empowerment, inclusion, and transformation.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine: What kind of legacy do you want to leave behind as the owner.
I hope to leave behind a legacy of empowerment, kindness, and meaningful change. I want Ultimate Pageants to be remembered not just as a competition, but as a movement—a place where contestants felt uplifted, where confidence was built, and where real stories were celebrated. My goal is to continue shaping a system that inspires growth, gives back to the community, and redefines what it means to be a titleholder in Australia.
World Class Beauty Queens Magazine would like to say thank you for this wonderful interview.
Asha Ryan Founder of Ultimate Pageants Australia, World Class Beauty Queens Magazine,
CROWN MEDIA - Podcast for all your pageant needs. Crown and Confidence Podcast
Aurora Royale - Singer, song writer, World Class Ambassador. Visit her page and listen to her inspirational and motivational pageant music. Link to her page.
Interview by Derek Tokarzewski
Owner/Editor in Chief
Mr WorldClass 2023
Mr United Nations 2018
Platform: Women Empowerment
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