Successful model, advocate, actor, comedian and public speaker Jonathan (Jony) Berry has added a new title to his success, after being selected to represent Australia in Mr Universe.

Having already been the first Indigenous Mr World Australia, the Palawa representative for Sydney World Pride and the Indigenous representative for the National Stroke Foundation, Berry is no stranger to the realm of success – an area in which he is driven by his passions.

"Kicking off 2024 has been incredible—I've been nominated to represent Australia at the Mr. Universe contest in India, marking a historic moment as the first Indigenous Australian man to again represent our nation in this prestigious pageant," Berry told Style Up.

With 2024 marking the first year Berry has participated in Mr. Universe, he is thrilled be able to bring his cultural heritage to a new global stage.

"This is my first time participating in Mr. Universe, and it's a tremendous honour," he said.

"Being the first Aboriginal Australian man to represent at Mr. Universe makes it even more special. It's a dream come true, and I'm excited to bring my cultural heritage to the global stage."

When discussing how it feels to be provided with the opportunity to represent not only Australia but the broader First Nations community, Berry said it's about more than just the pageant, it's an opportunity that allows him to further showcase the richness of First Nations culture and advocate for greater representation.

"It's an immense honour and a great responsibility to represent both Australia and the broader First Nations community. This opportunity allows me to showcase the richness of our culture and advocate for greater representation," he said.

"It's about more than just the pageant—it's about highlighting the beauty, resilience, and strength of Indigenous people on an international platform.

"This time I'm also approaching it from the perspective of inner strength and outer courage. There were so many issues around me wearing the Aboriginal flag at Mr World and I wasn't in the right frame of mind to really challenge it.

"I've come so far as an Indigenous man - I want to show the Universe the strength we have as a First Nations people."

Being a proud LGBTQI+ advocate, the talented creative is also eager to hopefully inspire the broader Indigenous and LGBTQIA+ communities, that no goal is too great, and it is crucial that we all do not let societal norms dictate our passions and what we pursue.

"My career started in the fashion industry, working with both high-end and grassroots brands, and I've also been deeply involved in advocacy for Indigenous and LGBTQIA+ communities as well as child sexual abuse victims," he said.

"I've overcome significant trauma, dealt with homelessness and believe that the ongoing discrimination that our people face in regard to their health is appalling.

"As a proud LGBTQIA+ advocate, I hope my participation in Mr. Universe shows others that they can pursue their dreams regardless of societal norms.

"Representation matters, and by being visible and authentic, I hope to inspire others not just in the LGBTQIA+ community but all minoritised community's to push boundaries, embrace their identities, and seize every opportunity to make their mark and show the beauty of our unique paths."

As passionate as he is about greater representation and opportunities for the LGBTQIA+ community, Berry is also eager to see drastic changes in the number of opportunities available for First Nations individuals, saying greater representation in this sector is also required.

"There have been positive shifts, but there's still a long way to go. The creative industry has started to recognise the importance of Indigenous voices and stories, but true equity requires ongoing effort and commitment," Berry told Style Up.

"More opportunities, resources, and platforms need to be created to support First Nations individuals in showcasing their talents and sharing our unique perspectives."

To properly prepare in the lead-up to Mr. Universe, Berry said he is incorporating a mix of training styles.

"Preparing for Mr. Universe involves a mix of physical training, mental preparation, and cultural expression," he said.

"I've been working closely with an all-Indigenous team to create my national costume and wardrobe, incorporating hand-painted fabric and designs rooted in my Palawa culture.

"I'm also focusing on fitness and nutrition to ensure I'm at my best physically, and spending time reflecting on my journey to bring authenticity and depth to my representation.

"I've just spent a week at Airlie Beach immersing myself into the mindset I need to get out there and do this."

Additionally, Berry said he is looking forward to furthering his engagement in advocacy and public speaking.

"After Mr. Universe, I'm excited to continue my advocacy work and public speaking," he said.

"I'm also collaborating with several Indigenous artists to voice some popular characters and really moving into film and comedy.

"Stay tuned for more updates you mob and give me a follow on socials to join me on this journey."

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