Ioanna Skoula Interview: Miss Global Greece 2026

Ioanna Skoula, recently crowned Miss Global Greece 2026, sat down with us for an exclusive interview shortly after Greek City Times announced her crowning, and her photos began flooding feeds worldwide. The 20-year-old from Heraklion, Crete, shares about her upbringing, the experiences that shaped her early years, and the goals she’s pursuing now. Resilience, authenticity, and empowerment are central themes in everything she says. It offers an honest look at who she is and what motivates her as she prepares to take the international stage.

 

Roots in Crete: Family, Community, and Cultural Foundations

Could you share more about your upbringing in Heraklion, Crete? How did your family, local community, and Cretan culture influence your personal development and values?

I was raised in Heraklion, Crete, within a family environment rooted in strong values and a close, supportive community. From an early age, I learned the importance of respect, honesty, and responsibility. Cretan culture profoundly influenced my character through its emphasis on resilience, pride, and authenticity. Growing up there taught me to stay grounded, work hard for everything I pursue, and always honour my roots. These values continue to guide me in both my personal life and professional journey.

Heraklion’s lively community created a strong sense of belonging, and Skoula credits this atmosphere for shaping her grounded outlook. The island’s enduring traditions of perseverance continue to influence how she tackles challenges today.

Early Passions: Gymnastics, Singing, and Athletic Exploration

You began training in rhythmic gymnastics at the age of five and continued until twelve, while also engaging in choral singing. What initially drew you to these activities, and how have they shaped your discipline and sense of purpose today?

From a very young age, I was drawn to rhythmic gymnastics and dreamed of becoming an athlete. I trained consistently from the age of five until twelve, developing discipline, focus, and dedication. At the same time, I participated in choral singing, which helped me cultivate teamwork, emotional expression, and confidence. Later, during my teenage years, I explored athletics through track and field. Each of these experiences shaped my sense of discipline and perseverance, and taught me the importance of balance, consistency, and commitment in everything I do.

These activities built habits that stuck for life. The focus needed in gymnastics carried over to bigger life goals, while singing in a choir boosted her emotional awareness and teamwork skills.

Entering Pageantry: Growth and Lasting Lessons

At 16, you were crowned Miss Crete Young (Miss Teen Crete), followed by Miss Young Hellas (Miss Teen Greece) at 17. What motivated you to enter the world of pageants at such a young age, and what were the most valuable lessons you learned from those early experiences?

I entered the world of pageantry at a young age because I saw it as an opportunity for growth and self-discovery. It challenged me to step outside my comfort zone and develop confidence, responsibility, and strong communication skills. Through these early experiences, I learned how to represent values beyond appearance, remain composed under pressure, and understand that true success is rooted in preparation, character, and authenticity. Pageantry played a significant role in shaping who I am today and offered life lessons that extend far beyond titles.

Skoula sees pageantry as a transformative experience, emphasizing that preparation and character are key to achieving success in competitive environments.

Fitness Evolution: From Kickboxing to Holistic Well-Being

Kickboxing and athletic training play a significant role in your life. How did you discover kickboxing, and in what ways has it contributed to your mental resilience, self-confidence, and overall empowerment?

At one point in my life, I practiced kickboxing to challenge myself physically and mentally. It helped me build discipline, emotional control, and self-trust, while strengthening my mindset. As my journey has evolved, so has my approach to fitness. Today, my focus is on holistic training that supports overall health, balance, and well-being. I believe movement should nourish both the body and the mind, and for me, physical activity remains a powerful form of self-care, stress relief, and personal grounding.

Her shift to holistic practices shows maturity. Thus, fitness serves as ongoing self-care rather than solely competition.

Professional Aspirations in Beauty and Fashion

Having studied modelling at Cristy Academy and worked professionally as a model, along with completing studies in face and body aesthetics, what are your long-term career goals in the fashion and beauty industries?

I have studied modelling, facial and body aesthetics, massage therapy, and professional makeup at Cristy Academy in Heraklion. My long-term goal is to build an international career in the fashion and beauty industries while promoting authenticity, confidence, and self-respect. I aspire to combine beauty with education, entrepreneurship, and empowerment, contributing meaningfully to the industry by redefining beauty as an expression of inner strength, individuality, and purpose.

Skoula weaves her education into her bigger ambitions, aiming to combine a sense of style with efforts that promote empowerment.

Advocacy Focus: Supporting Domestic Violence Survivors

Your platform is dedicated to supporting women who have experienced domestic violence, helping them rebuild self-esteem through fitness, makeup, and holistic well-being. What personal experiences or inspirations led you to this cause, and how do you plan to implement it during your reign?

My platform was inspired by witnessing how deeply emotional trauma can affect a woman’s confidence and sense of self-worth. I firmly believe that healing is a holistic process that involves both inner and outer care. During my reign, I plan to collaborate with professionals to develop workshops focused on wellness, self-care, and personal empowerment. My goal is to provide women with practical tools to rebuild strength, confidence, and dignity within a safe, supportive environment.

This cause drives her work. Consequently, workshops will offer tangible support during her tenure.

Global Representation and Cultural Pride

As Miss Global Greece 2026, what are your primary goals for the international competition, and how do you hope to represent Greece’s values of strength, authenticity, and cultural heritage on the global stage?

Representing Greece on the international stage is an honour I hold very dear. It has always been my dream to represent my country in a global beauty pageant and share Greece’s rich culture, history, and identity with the world. Through my participation in Miss Global, I aim to highlight Greek heritage, art, and values to international audiences, especially those unfamiliar with Greece. I hope to serve as a proud ambassador and help spread awareness of my country’s cultural legacy worldwide.

Skoula fully embraces her role as ambassador, putting her energy into sharing Greece’s rich heritage with the world.

Advice for Young Women: Embracing Dreams and Self-Belief

What message would you like to share with young women in Greece who aspire to pursue careers in pageantry, modelling, or advocacy, especially those facing challenges in building their confidence?

I would tell young women to never give up on their dreams, no matter how challenging the journey may seem. Success rarely comes easily or quickly; it is built through hard work, consistency, discipline, and persistence. Your background, circumstances, or lack of connections should never define your limits; you always have the right to dream and set meaningful goals.

Remember that you are unique. Confidence grows when you stop comparing yourself to others and start embracing who you truly are. Your individuality, imperfections, and natural qualities are not weaknesses; they are what make you stand out. When you accept yourself fully, you create an authentic presence that no one else can replicate. With self-belief, effort, and determination, anything is possible.