Port Talbot, in south Wales, is a town recently shaken by the closure of its iconic Tata Steelworks and with it the loss of over 2,000 jobs. However, 18-year-old Grace Gavigan from Baglan is set to bring a much-needed ray of hope and inspiration back to her community.
The Port Talbot resident, Cardiff University student and crowned Miss Earth Wales will fly out to the Philippines at the end of this week to represent her country and community on the global stage at the prestigious Miss Earth competition along with 70 other delegates from all over the world.
Grace, a lifelong environmental advocate and a dedicated volunteer of the Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales, has been a shining example of resilience and passion for the natural world since the age of nine.
Her environmental advocacy focuses on the alarming biodiversity and climate crisis, along with conservation and wildlife protection.
These are all issues close to her heart and vital for the future of our planet. She now carries the hopes of a community and country as she competes to be the first Welsh contestant to ever place at Miss Earth.
Grace Gavigan, Miss Earth Wales said:
“I’ve always been passionate about protecting the environment on both a local and global level.
“Growing up in a steel town surrounded by coast and mountains has given me the opportunity to explore an array of different habitats, learn about the wildlife that call these places home and strive to protect them.”
Grace has also founded a community project called ‘Pollinator Pathways NPT’ which creates mini wildflower havens to support our declining pollinators.
“The bee was recently declared the most important species on the planet,” said Grace.
“In the UK we have lost around 13 bee species and another 35 are at risk. I’m determined to inspire others to take action to protect this keystone species”.
Despite the recent challenges facing Port Talbot, Grace’s success provides a beacon of positivity for a town known for its strength and perseverance.
For decades, Port Talbot was synonymous with steelmaking, but with the closure of the steel plant last week, the community is now navigating a period of uncertainty. Grace’s story offers a fresh narrative—one of renewal, hope, and a future built on sustainable values.
Danielle Latimer, Miss Earth Wales Director said:
“Grace has proven herself to be a true changemaker, bringing immense pride to our organisation, her family and planet.
“Her dedication, hard work and genuine passion for the cause has already made a remarkable impact, regardless of the outcome in the Philippines.
“We are honored to have her as our Queen, and we invite everyone to join us in supporting her journey.”
As a fan favorite and front-runner in the competition, Grace has captured the attention of international audiences, not just for her beauty but for her genuine commitment to the environment. She hopes to use the Miss Earth platform to amplify her voice and make a global impact on issues such as climate change and biodiversity loss.
Miss Earth, one of the largest international beauty pageants and is distinguished by its focus on environmental awareness and sustainability. Contestants from all over the globe will come together to compete not only in traditional categories but also in environmental projects and advocacy presentations. Grace’s dedication to wildlife protection, strong advocacy and genuine passion makes her a formidable contender.
Grace’s journey is a symbol of hope and forward-thinking values. She represents not only her town but a generation that is determined to reshape the world for the better. The international Miss Earth competition will take place in Manila, Philippines, on October 27, 2024, and Grace is determined to make Wales proud.
[Lead image: Grace Gavigan]
