The 73rd Miss Universe pageant unfolded in Mexico City on Saturday, bringing together over 120 contestants from around the globe, with many countries making their Miss Universe debuts.
The coveted crown was claimed by Miss Denmark, Victoria Kjær Theilvig, who triumphed amidst a remarkable competition. Theilvig, aged 21, was honored with the title by Miss Universe 2023, Sheynnis Palacios, marking a historic moment as she became the first contestant from Denmark to win the title. Previously, it had been 61 years since Denmark saw a contestant finish in the top five.
The pageantry saw Miss Nigeria, Chidimma Adetshina, take the first runner-up position, while the host country’s representative, Miss Mexico María Fernanda Beltrán Figueroa, secured third place.
During the final round, the top five contestants were posed with a thought-provoking question regarding the inspiration Miss Universe offers to women worldwide. Theilvig delivered an empowering response, encouraging women to convert their past experiences into strengths. She expressed, “No matter where you come from, no matter your past, you can always choose to turn it into your strengths. It will never define who you are. You just gotta keep fighting.”
With aspirations of becoming a lawyer, Theilvig is not only a dancer and beauty entrepreneur but also a passionate advocate for mental health support and animal rights, demonstrating her dedication to positive social causes.
This year’s competition was particularly notable for breaking barriers, including Chidimma Adetshina becoming the first Miss Nigeria to reach the top five. Additionally, Miss Egypt, Logina Salah, made history as the first contestant with vitiligo to participate, while Miss Malta, Beatrice Njoya, highlighted age diversity in beauty pageants, being the oldest contestant at 40 years old.
The 73rd Miss Universe pageant not only celebrated beauty but also championed messages of empowerment, resilience, and inclusivity, leaving a hopeful mark for future competitions. The inspirational narratives shared by the contestants resonate with a global audience, fostering ambition and belief in self-worth among women everywhere.