Jasmine Gerhardt: ‘It’s not just about putting on a dress; it’s about making a real impact’

Beauty pageants were something I fell into quite young, but I love the person I’ve become through it.

My mam was a former beauty queen so it’s definitely a big reason why I competed.

I spent four years studying law and then completed a master’s in human rights and European Union law.

I plan on sitting for the New York Bar in July to become an attorney. I gained work experience with the Irish Innocence Project, which is part of a global initiative helping those who have been wrongly convicted seek legal advice. That was definitely my favorite work experience. My first real job was as a waiter in my parents’ restaurant.

Self-belief is so important.

I’m not the most confident person even now, but I’ve definitely improved in believing in my ability to achieve what I truly want. I also trust that there’s a higher power guiding it all.

There’s often a stigma around beauty pageants—that they’re just about appearance rather than advocacy.

But in reality, they’re a platform for meaningful work. The more I showcase my involvement in charity work and the causes I align with, the more people see that it’s not just about putting on a dress; it’s about making a real impact. My main responsibility in work is to make an impact in any role I take on—whether it’s as Miss Ireland or in my legal career. I love influencing and inspiring people to be the best version of themselves.

I’ve always looked up to Amal Clooney. She is everything I aspire to embody as a woman.

Being told “no” happens frequently in the modeling world, and I’ve learned it happens in other industries, too. But I’ve realised that the risk of regret is far greater than the risk of trying.

I wake at 8am – I’m an early bird, 98% of the time!

The first thing I do every morning is message my mam. She’s always awake, so I check if she has the kettle on! I start my day with a shower, a workout, and some gratitude practice. I also love dancing around to a great 70s song before heading out.

I can’t go to work without my diary.I like to make sure I have everything I need to get done noted down on paper.

On an average workday, I am very busy! I usually spend my days mingling at events and engaging with so many lovely people. I truly love it. When I start my workday depends on my schedule, which is flexible depending on what I have going on that day.

I usually spend the first portion of the day working out, jogging, practicing gratitude, planning my day, and getting to work.

But my absolute favorite way to start the day is with a coffee, sitting outside (if it’s not too cold) and just enjoying nature. Closing my eyes, listening to the birds, the wind, or, in Ireland’s case, a lot of rain—it truly grounds me. I rarely get through my working day without coffee. Coffee and I are soulmates; I’m sure of it!