Miss Represented Podcast Summary: Episode 60 with Helena Hafþórsdóttir O'Connor

Release Date: August 6, 2025

In Episode 60 of the Miss Represented Podcast, host Lisa Opie welcomes Helena Hafþórsdóttir O'Connor, Miss Universe Iceland, for an engaging and insightful conversation. The episode delves into Helena's journey in pageantry, her upbringing in Iceland, her passion for psychology, and her preparations for the upcoming Miss Universe competition. Additionally, listeners enjoy a fun "This or That" segment, showcasing Helena's personal preferences.

1. Preparing for Miss Universe

Helena shares her current activities following her crowning as Miss Universe Iceland, detailing her road trip to select dresses and build her wardrobe. She expresses excitement about finding her evening gown locally in West Virginia, praising her sponsors for their support.

Helena Hafþórsdóttir O'Connor [01:29]: "I have found the evening gown. It's beautiful."

Helena is actively preparing her walk and practicing diligently to ensure she shines on the Miss Universe stage. She highlights the importance of discipline, especially with swim week approaching and other commitments like shooting.

2. Pageant Journey and Experiences

Reflecting on her first foray into pageantry, Helena recounts her participation in Miss Universe Iceland 2023, where she earned the title of Miss Supranational Iceland as the first runner-up. This achievement propelled her to compete internationally at Miss Supranational 2024 in Poland, marking her deepened love for pageantry.

Helena Hafþórsdóttir O'Connor [03:10]: "I went to Miss Supranational 2024, and that's kind of where I just started to love pageantry."

Her experience in Poland was enriching, from the beautiful venues reminiscent of Iceland's landscapes to the vibrant culture and cuisine. Helena cherishes the friendships she formed, especially with her best friend from Ecuador, whom she maintains contact with despite the geographical distance.

3. Growing Up in Iceland

Helena paints a picture of her childhood in Iceland, emphasizing the nation's safety, strong sense of community, and the myriad of experiences it offers despite its small size.

Helena Hafþórsdóttir O'Connor [05:59]: "Iceland is an amazing place to grow. It's a very safe place, and you get to experience so many things."

She highlights the supportive environment that fosters personal growth and the close-knit community that characterizes Icelandic society.

4. Pursuing Psychology and Mental Health

A significant portion of the conversation revolves around Helena's academic pursuits in psychology, inspired by her own battles with anxiety during childhood. Her commitment to mental health is evident as she aspires to use her knowledge to help others.

Helena Hafþórsdóttir O'Connor [06:27]: "I want to use my power to help others as much as I can. And the first step to that is, I think, learning psychology and studying it."

Helena discusses her future academic plans, aiming to complete her bachelor's degree and potentially pursue a master's in clinical psychology or marketing. She underscores the importance of mental well-being, especially in challenging environments like Iceland's harsh winters.

5. Legacy and Inspiring Young Women

Helena is passionate about leaving a positive impact, particularly for young women in Iceland. She emphasizes the importance of chasing dreams and not being afraid to aim high, drawing from her own experiences in pageantry.

Helena Hafþórsdóttir O'Connor [09:33]: "It's so important for our girls to know to chase their dreams and to not be afraid to dream big."

Her journey serves as a beacon of inspiration, showcasing how striving for one's goals can lead to fulfilling achievements.

6. Advice for Aspiring Pageant Contestants

Drawing from her experiences, Helena offers heartfelt advice to those hesitant about entering pageantry. She encourages individuals to push beyond their comfort zones and embrace challenges as opportunities for growth.

Helena Hafþórsdóttir O'Connor [11:09]: "The best advice I can say is just to push yourself out through the wall or through the box. It's the best thing you can do."

7. Life in Iceland and Must-Visit Places

Helena shares her favorite spots in Iceland, recommending natural landmarks like Guttfoss and Diamond Beach. She reminisces about her time on Vede island, a serene location she cherished working at a coffee shop during her youth.

Helena Hafþórsdóttir O'Connor [12:16]: "I would always tell them to see Guttfoss and Geyser. It's a geyser and waterfall. Beautiful place."

Her descriptions highlight Iceland's breathtaking beauty and the unique experiences the country offers to both residents and visitors.

8. "This or That" Fun Segment

The episode concludes with a lighthearted "This or That" segment, revealing Helena's personal preferences:

• Heels or Sneakers: Heels

  Helena [13:32]: "I'm a heels kind of girl. I love wearing heels. It makes me feel extra confident."

• Instagram or TikTok: Instagram

  Helena [13:53]: "I like TikTok. I like to watch them. But I'm still trying to figure out how to make the videos there and everything."

• Early Mornings or Late Nights: Both

  Helena [14:16]: "Sometimes I'm awake super early and sometimes I sleep the whole day and have the night evening."

• Beach Vacation or City Adventure: Beach Vacation

  Helena [16:04]: "I really love the beach... coming here I can go to the beach. It's so pretty."

• Coffee or Tea: Coffee

  Helena [16:22]: "I'm a coffee person. I worked as a barista for a few years and still do. So coffee all the way."

• Texting or Phone Calls: Phone Calls

  Helena [17:02]: "I feel like you can connect way better with a person... phone calls all the way."

• Hosting or Attending an Event: Attending

  Helena [17:19]: "Probably attending."

• Netflix or Reading a Book: Netflix

  Helena [17:26]: "I have to say Netflix there."

• Summer or Winter: In-between

  Helena [17:42]: "I like summer... but winter in Iceland is like a fairy tale with the snow and everything."

• Sweet or Savory: Sweet

  Helena [18:13]: "Probably sweet."

• Solo Work or Team Collaboration: Collaborating

  Helena [18:19]: "I think you can do spectacular things when a lot of people get together."

• Speak to Younger or Future Self: Thank Younger Self

  Helena [18:29]: "I would probably tell her to not be afraid and just try your best to do your best."

Connect with Helena Hafþórsdóttir O'Connor:

Follow Helena on social media to stay updated on her Miss Universe journey and personal endeavors:

• Instagram: @helena.oc
• Miss Iceland Official: missiceland.org

This episode offers a comprehensive look into Helena's multifaceted life, blending her ambitions in pageantry and psychology with personal anecdotes and advice. Her authentic storytelling and motivational insights provide valuable lessons for listeners aspiring to achieve their dreams while maintaining mental well-being.