Miss Universe 2024: A Global Celebration Of Beauty And Culture -

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Introduction

Brief Overview of Miss Universe 2024

Miss Universe 2024 marked the 73rd edition of one of the most prestigious beauty pageants globally. The event culminated on November 16, 2024, bringing together 125 contestants from across the world to compete for the coveted crown. Hosted in Mexico City, Mexico, the event continued its legacy of celebrating diversity, culture, and the empowerment of women.

The competition, organized by the Miss Universe Organization (MUO), consistently provided a platform for women to showcase not only their beauty but also their intelligence, advocacy efforts, and leadership skills. With a rich history spanning over seven decades, Miss Universe remained a cornerstone of the global pageantry scene.

Importance of the Event in the Global Beauty Pageant Community

Miss Universe holds a unique position as a cultural and social phenomenon. Each year, it attracts millions of viewers worldwide, transcending national and cultural boundaries to celebrate the shared values of unity and empowerment. The event serves as more than a display of beauty; it is a space where contestants advocate for social causes, promote sustainability, and inspire future generations.

Key aspects that highlight its importance include:

Global Reach: Broadcasted in over 190 countries, Miss Universe garners a massive international audience.
Advocacy and Impact: Contestants use the platform to address pressing global issues such as climate change, education, gender equality, and humanitarian efforts.
Cultural Exchange: The event provides a global stage for contestants to share and celebrate their cultural heritage, fostering mutual understanding and respect.

Key Updates for the 2024 Edition

Miss Universe 2024 introduced several exciting updates that enhanced its legacy:

Venue and Host Country: The event was hosted at Arena CDMX, a premier venue in Mexico City, Mexico. This marked the fifth time that Mexico had hosted Miss Universe, highlighting the country’s strong ties to the pageant.
Record Participation: A total of 125 contestants participated, setting a record in recent years. This diverse group represented a rich tapestry of cultures and backgrounds from around the globe.
Focus on Advocacy: The Miss Universe Organization intensified its commitment to sustainability and women’s empowerment. Contestants were encouraged to present impactful advocacy projects as part of their journey.
Diverse Representation: This edition saw the return of several countries to the competition, making the stage more inclusive than ever before.

Miss Universe 2024 promised to be a remarkable celebration of beauty, culture, and advocacy. By embracing diversity and championing social causes, it continued to redefine the essence of pageantry for the modern era. As the event unfolded in the vibrant setting of Mexico City, it served as a reminder of the transformative power of unity, representation, and empowerment on a global scale.

Host Country and Venue

Location: Arena CDMX, Mexico City, Mexico

Miss Universe 2024 was held at the Arena CDMX in Mexico City, Mexico. Known for its modern facilities and capacity to host major events, this venue was a fitting location for such a prestigious global event. Arena CDMX, one of the most recognized venues in Mexico, had previously hosted concerts, sports events, and large-scale performances, making it ideal for the glitz and glamour of Miss Universe. With a seating capacity of over 22,000, it provided an impressive backdrop for the spectacle that Miss Universe is renowned for.

The choice of Mexico City itself, as the host city, added another layer of significance, as it was the heart of the country’s cultural and social life. The city, known for its rich history and vibrant culture, served as a hub of modernity and tradition, reflecting the diverse and empowering nature of Miss Universe.

Mexico’s Legacy in Hosting Miss Universe

Mexico has a long-standing relationship with Miss Universe, having hosted the event five times throughout its history. The previous occasions were 1970, 1993, 2003, 2007, and now in 2024.

1970: Mexico was the first Latin American country to host Miss Universe, setting a precedent for the pageant’s future in the region. It was held in Acapulco, and the event helped cement Mexico’s place as a key player in the pageant’s legacy.
1993: Mexico City hosted Miss Universe again, with the event becoming a memorable occasion in the history of the pageant.
2003 and 2007: Both times, the pageant was held in Mexico City, where it was recognized for its significant cultural representation and global appeal.

Hosting Miss Universe multiple times reflects Mexico’s importance in the global pageant scene and its reputation as a nation that celebrates beauty, culture, and diversity. It is not only a cultural powerhouse but also an essential part of the history of the Miss Universe Organization.

Significance of Hosting Miss Universe in Mexico

The decision to host Miss Universe 2024 in Mexico underscores the country’s prominence in the world of beauty pageants and global events. Some key aspects of Mexico’s significance as the host country include:

Cultural Influence: Mexico is home to a rich, diverse cultural heritage, with deep roots in history, art, and tradition. The country’s vibrant culture offers a unique backdrop for the international pageant, showcasing Mexican art, music, food, and festivals. It provides a dynamic stage for contestants to experience and share their cultures.
A Legacy of Beauty Queens: Mexico has a remarkable history in the Miss Universe pageant. Several Mexican contestants have achieved high rankings, with Lupita Jones winning the title in 1991, the first Mexican woman to do so. Other Mexican contestants have also earned top spots, enhancing the nation’s reputation in global pageantry.
Tourism and Economic Impact: Hosting an international event of such scale brings economic benefits, especially in terms of tourism, hospitality, and media attention. Mexico City is a thriving metropolis that offers numerous attractions and is one of the most visited cities in the world. The global visibility that Miss Universe brings also boosts tourism and highlights Mexico’s potential as a top global destination for future international events.
Promotion of Mexican Beauty Standards: By hosting the event, Mexico further reinforces the diversity of beauty standards celebrated worldwide. The country’s cultural diversity and appreciation for different forms of beauty make it an ideal platform for Miss Universe’s evolving focus on empowering women from all backgrounds.

Miss Universe 2024’s location at Arena CDMX in Mexico City held great historical and cultural significance. Mexico’s longstanding connection to Miss Universe adds another dimension to the prestige of this year’s event.

Miss Universe 2024 Contest Details

Total Number of Participants

Miss Universe 2024 featured 125 contestants from across the globe, representing a rich diversity of cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives. This impressive number highlighted the increasing global participation in the pageant, reflecting the growing interest in the event and its ability to bring together women from various corners of the world. These contestants vied for the prestigious crown, each bringing unique talents, stories, and advocacies to the stage.

The expanded participation underscored Miss Universe’s continued relevance as a platform for women who were more than just representatives of beauty but also advocates, leaders, and change-makers. With each country selecting its representative through local pageants, the diversity of the contestants enriched the competition and promoted a sense of unity through shared values of empowerment, education, and social advocacy.

Date of the Final Event: November 16, 2024

The Arena CDMX in Mexico City hosted the Miss Universe 2024 grand finals on November 16, 2024. This highly anticipated event marked the culmination of weeks of competition, with contestants participating in various rounds including swimwear, evening wear, and the all-important Q&A segment. The final event was broadcast live across the world, allowing millions of viewers to watch as one woman was crowned the next Miss Universe. The event proved to be a grand celebration of beauty, intelligence, and empowerment, with fans worldwide following the competition through live streams, social media updates, and TV broadcasts, making it an accessible and inclusive event for global audiences.

Unique Features of This Edition

Miss Universe 2024 introduced several new elements that enhanced its reputation as a dynamic and forward-thinking pageant:

Increased Focus on Advocacy: Miss Universe continued its emphasis on empowering contestants to use their platform to address pressing global issues, such as climate change, education, and gender equality. Contestants shared their personal missions and projects, highlighting the pageant’s role as a platform for social change.
Diversity in Representation: This edition showcased even more inclusive representation, with contestants from a wider variety of ethnic, cultural, and religious backgrounds. The inclusion of countries that had never participated before reflected the evolving nature of the event.
Digital Engagement: Miss Universe 2024 was one of the most interactive editions to date, with increased digital engagement through social media platforms, behind-the-scenes content, and fan voting. Fans had more opportunities to interact with contestants and follow the competition via various online channels.
Emphasis on Sustainability: The Miss Universe Organization focused on sustainability, spotlighting eco-friendly fashion, zero-waste practices, and sustainability initiatives by both contestants and event organizers. This underscored the organization’s commitment to promoting not just beauty but also responsibility toward the planet.
Innovative Stage Design: The event featured an innovative stage design and cutting-edge technology that elevated the production value. Stunning visuals, high-definition broadcasts, and immersive stage technology made the event more captivating than ever before.

Miss Universe 2024 was an unforgettable celebration of beauty, diversity, and empowerment. With 125 contestants from all over the world and a highly anticipated finale, it became one of the most memorable events in the pageant’s history. As the event unfolded, the pageant continued to evolve, embracing global trends while staying true to its core values of fostering confidence, leadership, and positive change among women.

Competition Format and Judging Criteria

Miss Universe 2024 turned out to be an exciting and highly competitive event, with contestants from 125 countries vying for the coveted title. The road to the crown was filled with rigorous rounds that tested the contestants on their poise, talent, intelligence, and social impact. Below was a detailed outline of the competition format and the judging criteria for that year’s event.

Outline of the Competition Format

Preliminary Rounds
- The preliminary rounds are the first stage of the competition, where all contestants showcase their skills, personality, and talents. These rounds are crucial for narrowing down the large group of contestants to a select few who will move on to the final event.
- Swimsuit Segment: The contestants will participate in a swimwear segment, where they will be judged on their physical fitness, confidence, and overall presentation. This round focuses on the contestants’ poise and self-assurance, as they display their commitment to health and well-being.
- Evening Wear Segment: Contestants will also present themselves in evening gowns, a round that emphasizes elegance, grace, and the ability to carry themselves with sophistication. The evening wear segment highlights the contestant’s fashion sense, posture, and confidence in high-stakes moments.
- On-Stage Interview: One of the most important aspects of the preliminary rounds is the on-stage interview, where contestants are asked impromptu questions by the judges. This is designed to assess the contestant’s communication skills, clarity of thought, and their ability to articulate their thoughts under pressure. The ability to handle these interviews with composure and confidence plays a key role in shaping the judges’ perceptions of each contestant.

National Costume Displays: The national costume segment is one of the most culturally enriching and entertaining parts of Miss Universe. During this round, contestants showcase their heritage through elaborately designed costumes that reflect the traditions, history, and culture of their home countries. This is an opportunity for contestants to express national pride and creativity, while also impressing the judges with their ability to carry bold, artistic, and sometimes extravagant costumes with grace.
Top Finalists Selection Process: After the preliminary rounds, a select number of contestants were chosen to advance to the final event. The Top 30 and Top 12 finalists were selected based on their performance in the preliminary rounds, which included swimsuit, evening wear, and interviews. This selection process played a crucial role in determining the contestants who would move on to the next stages of the competition.

Judging Criteria for Miss Universe 2024

The judging panel for Miss Universe 2024 evaluated contestants based on several key criteria, ensuring that the winner was not only physically beautiful but also intelligent, articulate, and passionate about using their platform for global impact.

Beauty of Face and Physical Appearance: Physical beauty remained an important aspect of the competition, understood in a more holistic way. Contestants were judged on their overall presentation, including grooming, facial beauty, and their ability to confidently present themselves in various settings.
Poise and Confidence: Throughout the competition, contestants were evaluated on how well they carried themselves. Whether walking the runway, answering questions, or participating in group activities, poise and confidence were critical. A contestant’s ability to exude self-assurance and grace under pressure was one of the key criteria for success.
Communication Skills: The on-stage interviews were pivotal in this area. Contestants had to demonstrate not only intelligence but also the ability to speak clearly, think on their feet, and express their views articulately. Whether answering questions on global issues or discussing personal causes, the ability to engage with an audience through effective communication played a central role in determining the top finalists.
Personality and Character: Judges also looked for contestants with strong personalities and characters capable of influencing and inspiring others. The ability to engage with the public, show leadership, and project a positive image was crucial. Contestants were often asked about their passions, causes they supported, and how they intended to make a difference in the world.
Social Responsibility and Advocacy: Miss Universe was no longer just about physical beauty; contestants were increasingly judged based on their advocacy and how they used their platform to create social impact. The judges paid particular attention to how each contestant used their voice to address global challenges such as climate change, education, gender equality, and mental health. Contestants who demonstrated a strong sense of social responsibility and a desire to contribute to the well-being of others were favored in the judging process.
Talent and Creativity: Miss Universe 2024 continued to include a talent segment where contestants showcased their skills, whether in music, dance, art, or other creative endeavors. This provided contestants an opportunity to present their artistic sides and their ability to entertain and inspire others through their talents.
Impact of the National Costume Display: The national costume round was not just about beauty but also about creativity and cultural representation. Judges evaluated how well contestants represented their countries through their costumes, ensuring that each costume reflected the country’s heritage and traditions in a meaningful and artistic manner.

The road to the crown in Miss Universe 2024 was filled with a comprehensive competition format that evaluated contestants on multiple fronts, from physical beauty and talent to advocacy and communication skills. As the competition progressed through its various rounds, contestants were judged not just on their looks but on their ability to inspire, lead, and make a positive impact in the world. This holistic approach to judging ensured that the eventual winner embodied the core values of the Miss Universe organization: empowerment, responsibility, and leadership.

Miss Universe 2024 Selection Committee

The selection committee for Miss Universe 2024 consisted of prominent individuals from various fields, including entertainment, fashion, philanthropy, and more. These distinguished members brought a wealth of experience and diverse perspectives to the table as they evaluated the contestants. Here’s a look at the esteemed panel:

Camila Guiribitey – A Cuban philanthropist and successful entrepreneur known for her commitment to social causes.
Emilio Estefan – A renowned Latin musician and music producer from Cuba, celebrated for his influence in the music industry.
Eva Cavalli – An Austrian fashion designer and Miss Universe 1977 First Runner-Up, recognized for her influential work in fashion.
Fariana – A talented Colombian actress and singer with a passion for the arts and entertainment.
Gabriela Gonzalez – A celebrated Mexican fashion designer with a unique aesthetic that blends traditional and modern influences.
Gary Nader – A Lebanese-Dominican art collector and businessman with an eye for contemporary art.
Gianluca Vacchi – An Italian entrepreneur and internet personality, also the President of SEA Societa Europea Autocaravan.
Jessica Carrillo – A Mexican news reporter at Telemundo, known for her impactful journalism and insightful commentary.
Lele Pons – A Venezuelan-American singer, actress, and social media personality with millions of followers worldwide.
Margaret Gardiner – A respected South African journalist and Miss Universe 1978, bringing her extensive experience and knowledge to the judging panel.
Michael Cinco – A Filipino fashion designer based in Dubai, celebrated for his high-fashion creations seen on red carpets globally.
Nova Stevens – An advocate and the winner of Miss Universe Canada 2020, known for her work in promoting diversity and inclusion.
Romero Britto – A Brazilian artist and sculptor whose vibrant, colorful artwork has gained international acclaim.

Each committee member added a unique dimension to the selection process, ensuring that the winner of Miss Universe 2024 embodies excellence, beauty, and talent across various spheres.

Notable Contestants in Miss Universe 2024

The Miss Universe 2024 competition made waves even before the final event. With a mix of debuting nations, returning countries, and contestants with remarkable personal stories, this year promised to offer a diverse array of contestants, each with their own unique backgrounds and aspirations. Here’s a recap of the most notable contestants who drew attention for their exceptional qualities and compelling narratives.

Spotlight on Countries Returning After Absence

Several nations returned to the Miss Universe stage after years of absence, signaling a shift in the competition’s global reach. These returns highlighted the evolving cultural and social significance of the event, with countries eager to reclaim their spots on the world stage.

Cuba: Cuba’s return to Miss Universe after a long hiatus (since 1967) was one of the most significant updates of the year. The country’s absence was due to political and logistical challenges, but the passionate return of Cuba’s beauty and talent added excitement to the competition. Cuba’s representatives have a history of performing well in global pageants.
Fiji: Fiji returned after an extended break (since 1981), bringing a fresh perspective from the Pacific Islands. Known for its rich cultural traditions and breathtaking landscapes, Fiji’s return marked a momentous occasion for both the country and its supporters.
Senegal: Senegal, which first participated in Miss Universe in 1987, returned to the stage in 2024, marking a key comeback. Its involvement brought a focus on West African representation, providing an opportunity for Senegal to highlight its unique heritage and cultural achievements.
Côte d’Ivoire: Returning for the first time since 1986, Côte d’Ivoire’s participation emphasized the growing prominence of African countries in international beauty pageants. The country’s return inspired pride within the Ivorian community and further contributed to the continent’s rising influence on the global beauty stage.

Profiles of Contestants Who Were Favorites or Had Notable Stories

Some contestants in Miss Universe 2024 stood out due to their incredible personal stories, social impact, and high-profile careers that transcended the traditional beauty pageant mold.

Victoria Vincent (New Zealand): Victoria Vincent became a standout contestant, not only for her stunning looks but also for her journey to the Miss Universe stage. After her predecessor, Franki Russell, was disqualified, Victoria earned her chance to represent New Zealand. Her story highlighted perseverance and adaptability as she navigated the unexpected shift in representation. Victoria was also a strong advocate for environmental issues and used her platform to promote sustainable living.
Ava Vahneshan (Iran): Iran’s representative, Ava Vahneshan, brought a strong sense of resilience to the Miss Universe competition. After her predecessor, Fay Asghari, relinquished the title due to personal conflicts, Ava stepped in as the first runner-up to claim her place. Ava’s story resonated with many, speaking to the challenges faced by women in Iran and her determination to pave the way for greater visibility of Iranian women on the global stage.
Ana Gabriela Villanueva (Guatemala): Ana Gabriela Villanueva from Guatemala became a fan favorite after stepping in to represent her country in place of Andrea Radford, who had to relinquish her title due to pregnancy. Ana Gabriela’s advocacy for women’s rights and her dedication to supporting young girls’ education were among the most commendable aspects of her profile. Her story of taking on the mantle for her country amid unexpected circumstances was both inspiring and empowering.

Special Achievements or First-Time Participants

Miss Universe 2024 also featured first-time participants and new countries entering the pageant, each bringing inspiring stories and unique perspectives.

Bahar Mirzayeva (Azerbaijan): Azerbaijan’s Bahar Mirzayeva was poised to compete but unfortunately had to withdraw due to undisclosed internal matters. Nonetheless, her initial inclusion was a significant milestone for her country, marking their participation in a pageant that traditionally garners international attention. Bahar’s presence would have been an important moment for Azerbaijan as they continued to assert themselves in global competitions.
Debut Participants (Belarus, Eritrea, Guinea, etc.): Several countries made their debut appearances in Miss Universe 2024, including Belarus, Eritrea, Guinea, Iran, Macau, Maldives, Moldova, North Macedonia, Somalia, UAE, and Uzbekistan. These nations brought new dimensions to the competition, providing platforms for representation that had often been overlooked in past pageants. Each of these debutantes carried the weight of their countries’ aspirations, showing that beauty transcends national boundaries and embraces diverse cultural identities.
Disqualified and Withdrawn Contestants: Alongside the exciting newcomers, there were notable withdrawals and disqualifications. Italy Mora (Panama) was disqualified for violating Miss Universe Organization’s rules, and contestants like Edona Bajrami (Kosovo) and Mia le Roux (South Africa) withdrew due to health issues. These incidents reflected the high standards and regulations that governed the event, adding drama and unpredictability to the competition.

The New Miss Universe Crown and Award Recipients

On November 14, 2024, the Miss Universe pageant introduced a stunning new crown, the “Lumière de l’Infini” (translated as “The Light of Infinity”), which was awarded to the new Miss Universe. Crafted by the renowned jewelry brand Jewelmer, this crown was a masterpiece adorned with diamonds and 23 golden South Sea pearls. Designed by Filipino artisans using traditional techniques from Place Vendôme, the creation of the crown took two years to complete. The design symbolized beauty, elegance, and the infinite possibilities of the future, making it a fitting crown for the world’s most prestigious beauty pageant.

Miss Universe 2024 Placements

The competition saw a highly competitive field, with standout contestants making it to the final placements. Here were the top placements of the 2024 pageant:

Miss Universe 2024: Victoria Kjær Theilvig from Denmark

1st Runner-Up: Chidimma Adetshina from Nigeria
2nd Runner-Up: María Fernanda Beltrán from Mexico
3rd Runner-Up: Suchata Chuangsri from Thailand
4th Runner-Up: Ileana Márquez from Venezuela

Top 12 Contestants

The Top 12 contestants who made it to the semifinals were:

Argentina: Magalí Benejam
Bolivia: Juliana Barrientos
Canada: Ashley Callingbull
Chile: Emilia Dides
Peru: Tatiana Calmell
Puerto Rico: Jennifer Colón
Russia: Valentina Alekseeva

Top 30 Contestants

The remaining finalists in the Top 30 included:

Aruba: Anouk Eman
Cambodia: Davin Prasath
China: Jia Qi
Cuba: Marianela Ancheta
Dominican Republic: Celinee Santos
Ecuador: Mara Topić
Egypt: Logina Salah
Finland: Matilda Wirtavuori
France: Indira Ampiot
India: Rhea Singha
Japan: Kaya Chakrabortty
Macau: Cassandra Chiu
Malaysia: Sandra Lim
Nicaragua: Geyssell García
Philippines: Chelsea Manalo
Serbia: Ivana Trišić
Vietnam: Nguyễn Cao Kỳ Duyên
Zimbabwe: Sakhile Dube (Note: Emilia Dides from Chile was voted into the Top 30 by viewers.)

Special Awards

The special awards acknowledged the contestants and national directors who stood out for their passion and dedication:

Miss Congeniality: Jenelle Thongs (Trinidad and Tobago)
Best Skin Award: Stephanie Cam (Honduras)
People’s Choice Award: Emilia Dides (Chile)

National Directors’ Awards

Best National Director: Dennis Dávila (Canada – Miss Universe Canada)
Best National Pageant: Nguyễn Thị Hương Ly (Vietnam – Miss Universe Vietnam)
Best National Host Tour Country: Jonas Gaffud (Philippines – Miss Universe Philippines)
Beyond the Crown Award: Yizette Cifredo (Puerto Rico – Miss Universe Puerto Rico)

Voice for Change Competition

Participants in the Voice for Change competition were given the opportunity to highlight their activism in a three-minute film. The winners, who were chosen by a selection committee and an online poll, were sponsored by the jewelry company Mouawad and the communication platform CI Talks. The preliminary competition revealed the gold and silver finalists.

Gold Winners

Juliana Barrientos (Bolivia)
Davin Prasath (Cambodia)
Ana Gabriela Villanueva (Guatemala)

Silver Finalists

Anouk Eman (Aruba)
Shereen Ahmed (Bahrain)
Raegan Rutty (Cayman Islands)
Snit Tewoldemedhin (Eritrea)
Matilda Wirtavuori (Finland)
Saran Bah (Guinea)
Suchata Chuangsri (Thailand)

This year’s Miss Universe event highlighted a diverse array of contestants, from first-time participants to returning countries, as well as significant personal stories of triumph and resilience. The new crown, with its exquisite craftsmanship, stood as a symbol of the beauty, grace, and strength that embodies the Miss Universe title.

Conclusion

As the coronation night of Miss Universe 2024 drew near, the excitement surrounding the event continued to build. Viewers from all corners of the globe eagerly anticipated the final moments when the next Miss Universe would be crowned. The competition, renowned for its elegance and global significance, was not just about beauty, but also about showcasing the contestants’ journeys, their advocacy efforts, and their ability to inspire change.

For the contestants, the coronation was the culmination of months of hard work, dedication, and personal growth. It was a moment to celebrate their achievements and a platform to continue advocating for the causes they held dear. As each contestant showcased her unique talents, values, and mission, the anticipation for the crowning moment intensified.

The journey of Miss Universe had become a celebration of strength, empowerment, and the global sisterhood that united women from all walks of life. Fans around the world were eagerly waiting for the final event, as it promised to be an evening filled with glamour, inspiration, and a sense of unity.

As the coronation night approached, pageant enthusiasts and supporters were encouraged to stay tuned for the live broadcast and updates across various digital platforms. The Miss Universe Organization ensured that the event was accessible to millions of viewers through television broadcasts, live streaming, and social media updates. Fans could follow the official Miss Universe social media accounts for behind-the-scenes content, exclusive interviews, and updates leading up to the grand night.

With global anticipation building, the live broadcast promised to deliver an unforgettable night filled with celebrations of beauty, purpose, and empowerment. Whether from the comfort of home or through digital platforms, the world united to witness the crowning of the next woman who would continue to represent the values of leadership, social impact, and empowerment on the global stage.

Miss Universe 2024: A Global Celebration of Beauty and Culture