Cork model Jessica Hayes has been crowned Miss Ireland 2014.
The stunning brunette from Frankfield, Cork, will now represent Ireland at Miss World this November.
In an exclusive interview with Goss.ie, Jessica revealed she is delaying college to follow her dreams, and admits competing in Miss Ireland last year boosted her confidence.
“I was screaming, I was actually screaming on stage when they called my name,” Jessica said.
Crowned: Jessica won the title of Miss Ireland| BRIAN MCEVOY
“I really didn’t think I was going to win, but I really gave it my all. I was here last year and I couldn’t call it this year.
“Everyone answered their questions really well in the final eight, so I was going to be happy for whoever won,” she told Goss.ie.
Jessica, 20, was crowned Miss Ireland at Dublin’s Ballsbridge Hotel after representing Dublin club Buck Whaleys.
The Cork girl beat 35 other stunners on the stage. But this wasn’t Jessica’s first time competing for the crown.
Top 3: Jessica with Miss Louth and Miss Dublin Central | BRIAN MCEVOY
Last year the brunette represented Cork, but failed to make it into the Top 3.
Despite losing out on the crown, Jessica signed up with model agency Assets and began to carve out a career for herself.
Jessica told Goss.ie, missing out on the crown made her determined to work hard.
“Last year I was Miss Cork, I had never done anything like this before.
“I was the girl in the background I was so shy, but honestly doing it was such a confidence booster for me, but I didn’t realise that until after.
“I went home after and started doing modelling and I realised I finally had confidence,” she said.
Competition: Jessica beat 35 other girls to the crown | BRIAN MCEVOY
“I knew I wasn’t going to win last year because I wasn’t as confident. I had no experience.”
“I was so so happy to get to the Top 7 last year,” she explained.
“But this year I came back with lots more experience in modeling and public speaking so I was ready to give it my all.”
The single model also revealed she is willing to delay her business degree, so she can focus all her attention on her new role as Miss Ireland.
“I study business, but I took a year out this year for modelling and I was working in Brown Thomas.
New Queen: Aoife posed with new Miss Ireland Jessica | GOSS.IE
“I was going to continue on my course in September. But obviously now I’ll need to delay my course again,” she said.
Jessica now has three months to prepare for her Miss World journey, which takes place in London in November.
“I can’t wait to experience Miss World, it’s going to be so amazing meeting new people and being a part of such a great experience, I really can’t wait,” she said.
Competition: Jessica stood out during the evening wear round | BRIAN MCEVOY
Former Miss Ireland Aoife Walsh handed over the coveted emerald crown to Jessica at the final.
The Tipperary beauty admitted it was an “emotional” night for her, but wished Jessica the best of luck.
