Darkinjung woman Aurelia May Hough has been selected to represent Indigenous Australia as Junior Miss Indigenous Australia at the upcoming Regency International Beauty Pageant in San Antonio, Texas.

The 12-year-old will travel to the United States in July to compete in the inclusive international event which encourages young women from diverse backgrounds to lead with confidence, community spirit, and cultural pride.

Aurelia is the first Indigenous Australian to be selected for the Junior Miss category of the Regency International system.

Her participation marks a significant milestone in the visibility of Indigenous youth on international stages.

Aureila's mother, Kerrie Hough, said the experience is about more than competition.

"It's a powerful reminder that our daughter, despite the challenges she faces with ADHD, Autism, and CDH, is capable of achieving incredible things," she told National Indigenous Times.

"Seeing her represent Indigenous youth on an international stage is not only a personal victory but a message of hope and strength to others.

"It shows that diversity in ability and culture can shine beautifully when given the platform and that our daughter's voice matters, her story matters, and she is worthy of celebration just as she is."

Aureila was also named runner-up in the 2025 Hawkesbury Junior Young Ambassador competition.

Aurelia was born with a rare and life-threatening condition known as Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia (CDH), which required emergency surgery shortly after birth.

She now lives with only one fully functioning lung.

Despite this, and the daily challenges of living with ADHD and Autism, Aurelia continues to thrive and perform with energy and pride.

Cheerleading and public performance have become key outlets for her expression and confidence, with the participation in the upcoming pageant is an extension of that passion.

The Regency Pageant is designed to support girls and young women to become leaders in their communities while celebrating the unique strengths they bring.

Contestants from across the world compete in various age divisions, with an emphasis on personal development and community impact rather than traditional beauty standards.

Ms Hough said the modelling and pageant industry still has a long way to go when it comes to representation.

"I don't believe there is enough Indigenous representation in the modelling or pageant world," she said.

"Our communities are still underrepresented in mainstream spaces, and when they are included, it's often in a tokenistic way...that's why this experience is so important.

"It's a step toward visibility, recognition, and empowerment for Indigenous youth."

The family is currently seeking support to help cover travel, accommodation, and competition-related expenses.

They are welcoming financial sponsorship as well as in-kind contributions such as culturally appropriate outfits or raffle items to support their fundraising efforts.

"We're incredibly proud of Aurelia and everything she's overcome," Ms Hough said.

"She's showing what's possible when our children are believed in, supported, and given the chance to be seen."

Aurelia and her family have launched a GoFundMe campaign to support her trip.