Sometimes it’s the unexpected advice that provides the inspiration to change for the better.

Kathryn O’Connor was inspired by comments American preacher and author Joel Osteen made on television a few years ago.

In an effort to get people to believe in themselves, he told listeners: “You’ll never rise any higher than the way you see yourself.”

It was an ‘aha’ moment for the Miss Bermuda 2015 Pageant contestant.

“I heard it on a Sunday morning a few years ago,” she said. “I was flipping through the TV channels, and stumbled upon Pastor Osteen’s broadcast. “He explained that the way you see yourself will limit the level of achievement you can reach, so it’s important to never be afraid to set the highest possible goals for yourself. His quote inspires me to be a better person and motivates me to achieve to my highest levels of accomplishment.”

It was in that same vein Miss O’Connor decided to sign up for next month’s pageant.

Her aim? To become a role model for other young women and ultimately learn more about herself.

“Fundamentally, this pageant is about showcasing and celebrating the beauty of our people and Island culture,” she said.

“I’m proud to be a part of this process. Already, I’ve gained substantially from being involved in this pageant and have found that the only way to achieve success, is to work hard and seek as much information as possible.

“I continue to learn how to be confident with myself and to express what I stand for. This experience has allowed me to meet many people and make lots of new friends. I plan to influence and inspire others to do what they love and not let anything stop them.”

The 17-year-old recently graduated from Saltus Grammar School. In the autumn she’ll go off to Saint Mary’s University in Halifax, Canada to study business.

She said the pageant was helping to prepare her for the next phase; already she’s become stronger and more independent.

“I have learnt more about who I am and the person I aspire to be,” she said. “I’ve learnt to put aside any insecurity and to carry myself with more confidence as I believe this is what will win the crown and provide the opportunity for me to represent Bermuda at an international level.”

Miss O’Connor who also happens to be an avid dancer, football and track and field player, said she’s ready to tackle the upcoming pageant head on. “The Miss Bermuda crown is an immense responsibility and I am looking forward to every bit of it,” she said.

“If I am crowned the winner, I hope to represent the women of Bermuda in a positive way by inspiring others and giving back to the community.”