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that push you outside your comfort zone. What draws you to those challenges? Joëlle Krinickas: I actually used to be terrified of trying new things! I was especially scared of heights and flying, so the idea of jumping out of an airplane was probably the last thing anyone would have expected me to do. My first ever skydive was a tandem jump in memory of my cousin Christie, who had a brain tumour. It was something that pushed me so far outside my comfort zone, but that experience completely changed my outlook on life. I absolutely fell in love with skydiving and wanted to be able to give other people that same incredible experience of overcoming their fears, which led me to working in the skydiving industry. Little did I know that decision would also eventually lead me to meeting my now husband, who introduced me to kitesurfing, and from there my love for adventure just continued to grow! What I love most is that so many of the best things in my life have come from stepping outside my comfort zone. If I hadn’t taken that first leap out of an airplane, my life could look completely different today, and I might never have even met my husband! Of course, I still get nervous trying new things, but I’ve learned that being scared doesn’t necessarily mean you shouldn’t do something. Sometimes the experiences that frighten us the most end up being the ones that change our lives in the most wonderful ways. I think that’s what continues to draw me to new challenges. Life is far too short not to experience as much of it as we can, and you never know where saying yes to something might take you. Miami and the Road Ahead ML: Miami is home for you. What is it about the city that has made it such an important part of your life? Joëlle Krinickas: Originally from England, Miami is quite a contrast to where I grew up, but it’s become a place I really love calling home. I love being surrounded by the water, which is something I particularly appreciate. Being so close to the ocean and having the opportunity to enjoy an active, outdoor lifestyle throughout the year is wonderful, especially as someone who loves watersports and nature. But what I love most about Miami is how incredibly diverse it is. There are so many different cultures, nationalities and communities all living alongside one another, and there’s always something happening or somewhere new to explore. It’s also where I’ve been able to build so many meaningful connections through volunteering and community events. From beach cleanups and charity initiatives to working alongside local organizations such as SharkGang, Miami has given me so many opportunities to get involved and contribute to the place I call home. I think there’s something really special about living somewhere that offers so much excitement and opportunity, while still being able to find that sense of community. ML: How would you like to use your reign to make an impact here in Miami and South Florida? Joëlle Krinickas: One of my biggest goals as Mrs. Galaxy International is to continue building on the community work I’ve already been doing, while