A beauty competition finalist aims to use her experiences to galvanise others into action.

Saffron Corcoran, 20, from Enfield overcame mental health and low self esteem as a teenager.

She now has a place in the final of Miss Universe Great Britain 2017, to be held in July.

Saffron said: “I’ve entered Miss Universe Great Britain to inspire young women not to give up.

“During my teenage years, I struggled with my mental health.

“It took me a long time to believe in myself and realize that I had a life to live.

“Miss Universe is a system that gives women a platform to spread awareness about their message and help others.

“It also creates a bond between women from afar; women whose paths would never have crossed otherwise.”

Saffron’s female friends made through the competition include fitness instructor, dentists and psychology graduates.

She added: “It lifts me up knowing that I’m surrounded by women of today who are taking charge of their futures.”

Miss Corcoran is taking full advantage of this opportunity, raising money for charities of her choosing.

One such organization is Stongbones Children Charitable Trust that supports young people who have severe bone conditions.

Whilst another is little-known Sheroes that champions victims of acid attacks in India.

Saffron explained: “This competition has allowed me to raise money for organisations that don’t have a national following.

“No person should be subjected to such a horrific attack which leaves physical and mental scars.”

Travelling throughout the United Kingdom on modeling assignments provides perfect opportunities to promote causes.

Entering competitions in Paris and Florida also gave chance to raise the profile of the charities.

When not globe-trotting Saffron loves watching Arsenal, and was overjoyed with the recent semi-final FA Cup victory.

Other hobbies include cooking and she enjoys eating dishes from around the world.

Saffron said: “I will be hosting a curry night on Friday 2nd June for family and friends, and is one of the ways I will be using my love for cooking to raise money for incredible causes.”

The national Miss Universe Great Britain finals are from 13th to 15th July in Cardiff and Newport, Wales.

An empowerment day is planned alongside fun fitness team building activities and a formal dinner at sponsors restaurant, Giovanni’s.

Categories include an interview with a panel of judges as well as modeling swimwear and evening gown.

Scores are calculated and the victor chosen from a final five competitors.

The winner will then represent the United Kingdom against 90 other Miss Universe competitors.

For further information on Sheroes and to make donations, click on the link https://sheroes.in/contact.

For information on the Strongbones Charitable Trust go to http://strongbones.org.uk or email trustees@strongbones.org.uk or telephone 01708 750 599.