A scientist has been named a finalist in the Ms GB Sussex 2026 pageant.

Marra Murphy, who grew up in Brighton and now works as a team lead scientist, will compete for the title at a ceremony taking place on June 28 at The Holiday Inn in Brighton.

The pageant celebrates not only beauty and poise but also intelligence and a commitment to community service.

Marra Murphy a Team Lead Scientist who grew up in Brighton has been announced as a finalist for Ms GB Sussex 2026 (Image: Marra Murphy)

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Ms Murphy said: “I’m honoured to be chosen as a finalist.

“This journey is about more than a crown – it’s about empowering others, advocating for women in the STEM industry, and raising awareness for causes close to my heart whilst being authentically myself.”

Her platform in the competition is the Planet Protection Act, which focuses on actions to protect against climate change.

Ms Murphy is an active volunteer with GRAB, a team that organises monthly beach cleans.

GRAB meets on the first Sunday of every month, and volunteers are always welcome to join.

Over the past five months, the team has collected 338kg of litter from beaches in Rottingdean, Saltdean, and Ovingdean.

Ms Murphy hopes the Ms GB Sussex platform will help her expand the reach of her environmental work.

Ms Murphy also aims to advocate for women in the STEM industry.

Should she win the title of Ms GB Sussex 2026, she will go on to represent the county at the national finals.

The grand final will be held on October 16, at Athena in Leicester.

Ms Murphy aims to use the crown to increase her reach to promote her platform and make a positive impact.