Have you ever wondered what happens to beauty queens once their reign is over? Well, former Miss Universe Ireland, Gráinne Gallanagh, has swapped her glamorous lifestyle for a less-than-glamorous job as a truck driver in Australia. It’s a job that no one wants, but she’s loving every minute of it.
A Drastic Career Change
After her days of glitz and glamour, Gráinne now spends 12 hours a day driving a lorry to procure supplies and deliver goods to a construction mine in Western Australia. It’s a far cry from the catwalk, but she’s embracing the challenge with enthusiasm.
Embracing the Challenge
Gráinne, who competed on RTE’s Dancing with the Stars in 2019, works grueling shifts for two weeks straight before taking a week off, which she spends in Perth. Despite the demanding nature of her job, she says she’s really loving it.
She initially had concerns about being one of the only women on the construction site, but everyone has been welcoming and made her feel at ease. In fact, she has already been awarded “employee of the month” and “employee of the year.” It’s clear that she has quickly become an integral part of the team.
From Miss Universe to Truck Driver
Gráinne’s journey from beauty pageants to truck driving is remarkable. After winning Miss Universe Ireland in 2018, she had a whirlwind of experiences, including competing in the Miss Universe competition and taking part in Miami Swim Week. But she also worked as a nurse in London during that time, which presented its own set of challenges.
Finding a Sense of Belonging
Gráinne always felt nervous during her modeling and presenting jobs, often having to “put on an act” to hide her nerves. However, she says that her current job as a truck driver doesn’t make her feel nervous at all. It’s a refreshing change for her, and the fact that her fiancé also works at the mine makes it even better.
Even though she misses her family and friends back in Ireland, Gráinne has no rush to return home. She’s planning her wedding and is excited about what the future holds. And who knows, television presenting might still be in the cards for her!
Gráinne’s story is a reminder that life is full of surprises and unexpected twists and turns. Sometimes, the most fulfilling path is the one we least expect. So, if you find yourself in a situation where your career takes an unexpected turn, embrace it with open arms, just like Gráinne did.
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