Victoria Kjær Theilvig from Denmark has made history by being crowned Miss Universe 2024, the first Danish contestant to achieve this honor. The 21-year-old, known for her talents as a competitive dancer and her aspirations in the fields of entrepreneurship and law, triumphed over more than 120 contestants during the event held in Mexico City on Saturday night.
Theilvig’s journey to the crown included being selected among the top 30 contestants, determined through preliminary events that featured a vibrant national costume competition. The semi-finalists paraded in swimwear, eventually leading to an evening gown showcase. The final five contestants faced grueling questions regarding leadership and resilience. When asked about changes she would make if there were no judgments, she confidently stated, “I live by each day.” Encouraging viewers, she said, “Keep fighting… no matter where you come from,” reiterating her desire for change and her historic achievement.
Chidimma Adetshina of Nigeria secured the first runner-up position, with Maria Fernanda Beltran from Mexico coming in second. Suchata Chuangsri from Thailand and Ileana Marquez Pedroza from Venezuela completed the top five.
A notable aspect of this year’s pageant was the removal of age restrictions, allowing women over 28 to participate for the first time. This change, reflecting a broader push for modernization within the competition, welcomed many participants who had previously been excluded. Participants like Malta’s Beatrice Njoya made headlines as the first contestant in her 40s to reach the grand finale. This adjustment, along with changes allowing pregnant women, mothers, and those who have been married to compete, marks a significant evolution in the pageant’s history.
As the competition took place, it faced some controversies, including issues related to national eligibility and previous directors facing scrutiny. These challenges, while difficult, illustrate the ongoing evolution of the pageant in response to societal changes.
Victoria Kjær Theilvig’s win is not just a personal milestone but serves as an emblem of progress and inclusivity in beauty pageants. Her story inspires many and demonstrates that dreams can be realized through determination and resilience.
In conclusion, this year’s Miss Universe pageant showcased not only individual achievements but also the shifting dynamics of the competition, promising a bright future as it embraces diversity and modern values.