A fluent Welsh speaker and relief worker for the mental health charity Platfform, Ms O’Kelly supports young people aged 11 to 17 using a trauma-informed approach.
She was diagnosed with autism at 16 after years of mental health challenges and now advocates for greater awareness of ASD in girls and women.
Ms O’Kelly entered Miss Wales to demonstrate that “being able to stand out is a beautiful concept” and to spread awareness on ASD in girls and women.
Miss Wales organiser Paula Abbandonato said: “Miss Wales is committed to empowering young women and raising money for good causes through the glamour and fun of pageantry.
“The girls get to make friends and experience new opportunities while really doing their bit for charity and helping women in need.”
This year’s final will take place in April and includes a three-day programme featuring an empowerment day, a charity ball, and a catwalk event in front of a live audience and judges.
Events will be held at Holland House Hotel in Cardiff and The Riverfront in Newport.
Finalists will be asked to raise money for charity and support A-Sisterhood, a non-profit promoting women’s causes in the UK and internationally.
They will also have the opportunity to do the ASK ME training with Welsh Women’s Aid to spot the signs of domestic violence and how to signpost women/girls to safety and support.
The winner of Miss Wales 2026 will go on to represent Wales at Miss World.
She will also enjoy a year of VIP experiences, including a trip to India to support the Sheroes of Stop Acid Attacks through A-Sisterhood.
The current Miss Wales, Helena Hawke, is 20 and from Caerleon.
