At just 18, Janessa Khoo is already embracing opportunities that push her beyond her comfort zone. Currently studying Mass Media Management at Nanyang Polytechnic, she grew up as a shy child who found it difficult to speak up in public. Those early experiences, including moments of bullying, taught her the importance of resilience, self-worth, and maintaining inner peace.

Janessa’s greatest personal achievement to date is finding that peace, learning to quiet her overthinking and protect her mental and physical wellbeing. Stepping onto the Miss Universe Singapore stage is, for her, both a bold leap into the unknown and a celebration of how far she has come in embracing confidence and self-expression.

Her advocacy is rooted in seizing life’s opportunities without regret. Inspired by the philosophy “Who’s going to remember this moment but you?”, Janessa wants to remind others to live fully, take chances, and treasure every experience. She also believes in the quiet power of a smile, which she sees as a universal connector, a gesture that makes her approachable, offers comfort in difficult times, and creates shared moments of joy.

A lover of music, Janessa has perfect pitch and enjoys playing the piano, singing, aerial yoga, and hitting the gym. Her favourite comfort food is her father’s fried rice, a simple yet nostalgic dish that brings back the warmth of family dinners.

“Life is too short for regrets. If something excites you, do it. Every opportunity is a step toward becoming the person you’re meant to be.”