A national footballer was among the top three winners of Miss Universe Singapore last year, which few would have expected. Add to that, second runner-up Lila Tan was a pageant rookie, and at the age of 18, was one of the youngest finalists in the competition.
It was Lila's uncle who encouraged her to take part in the pageant. I'm a very messy person. I'm very all over the place, confesses Lila, a finalyear student at international school Hillside World Academy. The competition didn't feel like it was something I would fit in, but I thought I'd just give it a try. I had to come face-toface with my anxiety at times, learn to speak my mind, and overcome my stage fright.
The past two years have been a whirlwind for Lila, during which she was spotted by her current modelling agency Misc. Management via her Instagram (@lilaatan) - she currently has over 15K followers and regularly posts photos of herself in Y2K-inspired outfits. On the sports front, Lila was called up for trials with the national Under-19 women’s soccer team in 2020. She was later selected for the squad going to the Asian Football Confederation Women’s Asian Cup Qualifiers last September in Tajikistan. By the end of 2021, she was part of the national team.
The 19-year-old, who can speak fluent French and Mandarin, spent 14 years of her childhood in Shanghai, where her French mother and Singaporean father were working as a corporate general manager and a business consultant respectively. The family were back for their annual holiday in 2020 when international borders were shut, and they decided to stay in Singapore permanently.
This story is from the June 2022 edition of Her World Singapore.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the June 2022 edition of Her World Singapore.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
The Rise Of Tradwives
Is this just another fancy name for a stay-at-home mum?
Independent Woman
Tap on floral prints, flowy skirts, sharp tailoring and sporty details for a new take on power dressing.
Buying An Independent Watch? Here's How To Find A Good One.
Karishma Tulsidas answers.
Would You Swipe Right On Feminism?
In the debut instalment of this new opinion column, a single Singaporean declares that in her search for a long-term partner, there's nothing more attractive than a man who embraces gender equality.
The Orange Peel Theory
Would you break up with your partner over peeled fruit? This latest social media trend might just be the unlikely dealbreaker.
You Shouldn't Feel Guilty About Taking A Vacation
Even though you've booked that much-needed vacation, you might find yourself hesitant to take the time off. How do you address the guilt that may be weighing you down, and actually enjoy your holiday?
Let Your Emotions Go
Have a flaky friend who always bails on plans? Here's how you can share how you feel while addressing the situation effectively.
How Much Is Family Planning Actually Costing You?
It's always prudent to be financially sound and savvy - especially if you're planning to start a family. Find out how you and your partner can map out a financial plan that is realistic, based on advice from parents and experts.
Do You Feel Guilty About Taking Leave?
We ask the Her World team, as well as readers, if they can truly unplug from work during a vacation.
Air-Dry Or Blow-Dry - Which Is Worse For Your Mane?
Haircare experts share their advice.
