Jesinta Campbell Wins Miss Universe

It was a moment many girls dream of: standing under a twinkling shower of confetti accepting the white satin Miss Universe Australian sash for 2010.

But for 18-year-old Sydney local Jesinta Campbell, the dream almost didn't come true.

Photos from Miss Universe Australia 2010

"I honestly thought I'd come in fifth," the teenager said referring to her stumble during the question and answer section of the event.

Asked about the importance of sun protection in Australia, Campbell struggled to the find the right words, breaking off mid-sentence twice during her response.

"I just had a mental blank," the journalism student explained, her voice quivering during a press conference after the announcement. "I think everyone makes mistakes."

marie claire publisher/editor Jackie Frank with Jesinta Campbell.

But according to Miss Universe judge and marie claire publisher/editor Jackie Frank, the win was never in doubt.

"Jesinta has vibrancy, confidence and poise that stands out from the pack," she said. "She has a gorgeous athletic figure and during the event she reminded me of a true beauty-pageant entrant in a classical sense - just the way that she carried herself down the catwalk and glanced back at the audience before exiting the stage.

"She's a real girl next door and I think she'll win the hearts of Australia."

Photos from Miss Universe Australia 2010

It's a sentiment echoed by Jesinta's mum Valerie: "She's only 18 and she's just so mature and so special. I'm so delighted for her, she worked really hard for this."

Campbell is an ambassador for Muscle Sprouts, a children's charity that aims to boost attitudes towards health and exercise.

As Miss Universe Australia 2010, Campbell steps into shoes formerly filled by Jennifer Hawkins, Rachael Finch and Laura Dundovic. In August she will represent the nation in the international Miss Universe pageant in Las Vegas.

Images: Getty Images/Joshua Morris