The 73rd Miss Universe pageant is set to take place in Mexico, marking a historic return to the country after 17 years. This year’s competition promises to be extraordinary, featuring over 80 contestants from around the globe, each bringing their unique charm, intelligence, and cultural heritage to the stage.
The event, renowned for its rigorous rounds, including personal statements, in-depth interviews, evening gowns, and swimwear, will culminate in the crowning of the new Miss Universe.
The reigning Miss Universe, Sheynnis Palacios, will pass the crown to her successor, adding a significant chapter to the legacy of this prestigious pageant.
Meet the Contestants
1. Albania – Franceska Rustem
Franceska Rustem is a 19-year-old model from Durres, Albania. With her youthful charm and vibrant personality, Franceska hopes to bring Albania its first Miss Universe crown. Albania has placed four times in the competition but never secured the title.
Franceska’s modeling journey and dedication to representing her country make her a strong contender. She is known for her graceful presence and strong communication skills. Franceska believes in the power of perseverance and dreams of inspiring young women in Albania.
Her participation in Miss Universe is a significant step for her career. She aims to showcase Albania’s rich culture and beauty on the global stage. Franceska is determined to make her country proud. She hopes her story will inspire future generations of Albanian women.
2. Argentina – Magalí Benejam
Magalí Benejam, a 29-year-old from Córdoba, Argentina, is a model, actress, and astrology student. Known for her versatility and dynamic personality, Magalí aims to bring the Miss Universe crown back to Argentina.
The country won its only Miss Universe title in 1962. Magalí has been a prominent figure in Argentina’s fashion and entertainment industry. She participated in the competition at 60, making a significant impact. Her journey is a testament to the elimination of age restrictions in the pageant.
Magalí is passionate about astrology and often shares her insights with her followers. She aims to use her platform to promote self-awareness and personal growth. Magalí is committed to making a difference in her community. She hopes to inspire others to pursue their dreams regardless of age.
3. Bahamas – Selvinique Wright
Selvinique Wright, 32, from Andros, Bahamas, is an inspiring example of perseverance. After four attempts, she finally won the Bahamas crown. Selvinique aims to show that there is no deadline to pursue your dreams.
She represents the Bahamas, which has only placed once in Miss Universe history. Selvinique’s journey is a testament to determination and resilience. She is passionate about using her story to inspire other women.
The Bahamas last hosted the Miss Universe pageant in 2009. Selvinique’s participation is a significant moment for her country. She hopes to secure the first Miss Universe crown for the Bahamas. Her story is one of dedication and unwavering spirit.
4. Belgium – Kenza Ameloot
Kenza Ameloot, a 22-year-old from Sint-Amandsberg, Belgium, is a model with a bachelor’s degree in international business. Known for her exotic looks and intelligence, Kenza is set to represent Belgium at Miss Universe.
Belgium has placed in the top six twice but has never won the crown. Her work with Dominique Models has marked Kenza’s modeling career. She brings a unique blend of beauty and brains to the competition. Kenza is fluent in multiple languages, enhancing her global appeal.
Her participation aims to bring Belgium its first Miss Universe title. Kenza is dedicated to promoting cultural understanding and international relations. She hopes her journey will inspire young women in Belgium. Kenza’s story is one of ambition and determination.
5. Belize – Halima Hoy
Halima Hoy, 29, from Port Loyola, Belize, represents the land of the jaguar. Belize last placed in the Miss Universe competition in 1979. Halima is determined to end this long drought and bring the crown to her country.
She is known for her captivating presence and strong sense of cultural pride. Halima’s participation is a significant moment for Belize. She aims to highlight the rich heritage and natural beauty of her homeland. Halima is passionate about environmental conservation and sustainable development.
Her journey is a testament to the resilience and spirit of Belize. She hopes to inspire future generations of Belizean women. Halima’s story is one of pride and determination.
6. Bolivia – Juliana Barrientos
Juliana Barrientos, 26, from Cochabamba, Bolivia, is half-Ukrainian and stands at 5’9″. She represents Bolivia, which has placed three times in Miss Universe history. Juliana aims to secure Bolivia’s first Miss Universe crown.
She is known for her striking looks and strong presence. Her dedication and hard work have marked Juliana’s journey in pageantry. She aims to showcase the unique blend of cultures in Bolivia. Juliana is passionate about promoting cultural diversity and unity.
Her participation is a significant moment for her country. She hopes to make Bolivia proud on the global stage. Juliana’s story is one of ambition and determination.
7. Bonaire – Ruby Pouchet
Ruby Pouchet, 29, from Kralendijk, Bonaire, represents her country after a long absence from the Miss Universe pageant. Bonaire last competed in 1999. Ruby aims to secure Bonaire’s first placement at Miss Universe.
She previously participated in Miss Grand International 2023. Her dedication to representing her country marks Ruby’s journey. She is passionate about promoting the natural beauty of Bonaire. Ruby hopes to bring attention to the environmental issues facing her island.
Her participation is a significant moment for Bonaire. Ruby aims to inspire future generations of women from her country. Her story is one of resilience and determination.
8. Cameroon – Noura Njikam
Noura Njikam, 25, from Yaoundé, Cameroon, represents the land of Bebe Zahara Benet. Cameroon placed for the first time in Miss Universe history last year. Noura aims to continue this trend and bring glory to her country.
She is known for her unique charm and strong presence. Noura’s participation is a significant moment for Cameroon. She hopes to showcase the rich culture and heritage of her homeland. Noura is passionate about promoting education and women’s rights.
Her journey is a testament to the spirit and resilience of Cameroon. Noura aims to inspire future generations of Cameroonian women. Her story is one of pride and determination.
9. Chile – Emilia Dides
Emilia Dides, 24, from Vitacura, Chile, is a talented singer and university student. Chile won the Miss Universe crown once in 1987. Emilia aims to end the long gaps in placement for Chile.
She is known for her captivating voice and stage presence. Her dedication to her craft marks Emilia’s journey in pageantry. She hopes to showcase the rich cultural heritage of Chile. Emilia is passionate about promoting music and the arts.
Her participation is a significant moment for her country. Emilia aims to bring the Miss Universe crown back to Chile. Her story is one of talent and ambition.
10. China – Jia Qi
Jia Qi, from Chengdu, China, is a former track and field athlete and fitness enthusiast. She was initially supposed to compete in 2023 but faced visa issues. Now, Jia is set to represent China in Miss Universe 2024.
Known for her athleticism and dedication, Jia aims to secure China’s first Miss Universe crown. China last placed in 2017; their best finish was 2nd runner-up in 2002. Her resilience and determination mark Jia’s journey.
She hopes to showcase the dynamic and modern aspects of Chinese culture. Jia is passionate about promoting a healthy lifestyle. Her participation is a significant moment for China. Jia’s story is one of perseverance and ambition.
11. Colombia – Daniela Toloza
Daniela Toloza, 30, from Cali, Colombia, has an inspiring story of overcoming personal challenges. Colombia has won the Miss Universe crown twice. Daniela aims to add another title to her country’s achievements.
She is known for her transformation and dedication to fitness. Her strong will and perseverance mark Daniela’s journey. She hopes to inspire others with her story of personal growth. Colombia is known for its vibrant culture and beauty queens.
Daniela aims to bring honor to her country on the global stage. Her participation is a significant moment for Colombia. Daniela’s story is one of resilience and triumph.
12. Croatia – Zrinka Ćorić
Zrinka Ćorić, 22, from Dubrovnik, Croatia, represents the greatest treasure of middle Europe. Croatia has never won the Miss Universe crown but has placed four times. Zrinka aims to change that and bring the crown to her country.
She is known for her stunning looks and charming personality. Her dedication and hard work mark Zrinka’s journey in pageantry. She hopes to highlight Croatia’s rich cultural heritage.
Zrinka is passionate about promoting tourism and cultural exchange. Her participation is a significant moment for her country. Zrinka aims to make Croatia proud on the global stage. Her story is one of ambition and determination.
13. Curaçao – Kimberly de Boer
Kimberly de Boer, 18, from Willemstad, Curaçao, is an artistic beauty and mental health advocate. Curaçao has never won the Miss Universe crown but has come close three times. Kimberly aims to bring the crown to her island nation.
She is known for her creativity and advocacy work. Her dedication to mental health awareness marks Kimberly’s journey in pageantry. She hopes to inspire others with her story. Curaçao last placed in 2022.
Kimberly aims to continue this success. Her participation is a significant moment for her country. Kimberly’s story is one of resilience and compassion.
14. Dominican Republic – Celinee Santos
Celinee Santos, 24, from Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, is a law student, model, actress, and digital creator. The Dominican Republic won the Miss Universe crown once in 2003. Celinee aims to bring another title to her country.
She is known for her intelligence and elegance. Celinee’s journey in pageantry is marked by her dedication to her studies and community. She hopes to showcase the vibrant culture of the Dominican Republic.
Celine is passionate about promoting justice and equality. Her participation was a significant moment for her country. Celinee aims to make the Dominican Republic proud. Her story is one of determination and grace.
15. Ecuador – Mara Topić
Mara Topić, 30, from Guayaquil, Ecuador, is a seasoned pageant veteran. Ecuador has never won the Miss Universe crown. Mara aims to change that and bring the title to her country.
She previously placed in the top 10 at Miss Grand International 2019. Her dedication to her craft marks Mara’s journey. She hopes to highlight the rich cultural heritage of Ecuador. Mara is passionate about promoting social justice and equality.
Her participation is a significant moment for her country. Mara aims to make Ecuador proud on the global stage. Her story is one of resilience and determination.
16. France – Indira Ampiot
Indira Ampiot, 20, from Basse-Terre, Guadeloupe, is the winner of Miss France 2023. France has won the Miss Universe crown twice, in 1953 and 2016. Indira aims to bring a third title to her country.
She is known for her beauty and grace. Her dedication to her community marks Indira’s journey in pageantry. She hopes to showcase the rich cultural heritage of France. Indira is passionate about promoting cultural diversity and unity.
Her participation is a significant moment for her country. Indira aims to make France proud on the global stage. Her story is one of elegance and determination.
17. Germany – Pia Theissen
Pia Theissen, 25, from Cologne, Germany, is a social worker, occupational therapist, and yoga teacher. Germany won the Miss Universe crown once in 1961. Pia aims to bring another title to her country.
She is known for her intelligence and compassion. Pia’s journey in pageantry is marked by her dedication to her profession and community. She hopes to promote mental health awareness. Pia is fluent in German, English, and Spanish.
Her participation is a significant moment for her country. Pia aims to make Germany proud on the global stage. Her story is one of compassion and determination.
18. Great Britain – Christina Chalk
Christina Chalk, 24, from Dunblane, Great Britain, is a beauty with a solid academic background. Great Britain has yet to claim the Miss Universe crown. Christina aims to be the first to bring the title home.
She is known for her intelligence and grace. Christina’s journey in pageantry is marked by her dedication to her studies and community. She hopes to inspire young women in Great Britain. Christina is passionate about promoting education and women’s rights.
Her participation is a significant moment for her country. Christina aims to make Great Britain proud on the global stage. Her story is one of ambition and determination.
19. Greece – Christianna Katsieri
Christianna Katsieri, 22, from Piraeus, Greece, was appointed to represent her country. Greece won the Miss Universe crown once in 1964. Christianna aims to bring another title to her country. She is known for her beauty and intelligence.
Christianna’s journey in pageantry is marked by her dedication to her studies and community. She hopes to showcase the rich cultural heritage of Greece. Christianna is passionate about promoting cultural diversity and unity.
Her participation is a significant moment for her country. Christianna aims to make Greece proud on the global stage. Her story is one of elegance and determination.
20. Guatemala – Andrea Radford
Andrea Radford, 29, from Guatemala City, Guatemala, is a television host. Guatemala has placed only three times in Miss Universe history. Andrea aims to secure her country’s first Miss Universe crown.
She is known for her captivating presence and strong communication skills. Her dedication to her craft marks Andrea’s journey in pageantry. She hopes to highlight the rich cultural heritage of Guatemala. Andrea is passionate about promoting social justice and equality.
Her participation is a significant moment for her country. Andrea aims to make Guatemala proud on the global stage. Her story is one of ambition and determination.
21. Iran – Fay Asghari
Fay Asghari, 37, from Tehran, Iran, is a nurse and the sister of Sam Asghari. Iran will compete as Persia in the Miss Universe pageant for the first time. Fay aims to bring glory to her country. She is known for her intelligence and compassion.
Fay’s journey in pageantry is marked by her dedication to her profession and community. She hopes to promote healthcare and women’s rights.
Fay’s participation is a significant moment for her country. She aims to make Persia proud on the global stage. Fay’s story is one of resilience and determination.
22. Kazakhstan – Madina Almukhanova
Madina Almukhanova, 23, from Almaty, Kazakhstan, represents a country that has never placed at Miss Universe. Madina aims to change that and bring the first placement to her country.
She is known for her intelligence and beauty. Madina’s journey in pageantry is marked by her dedication to her studies and community. She hopes to highlight the rich cultural heritage of Kazakhstan. Madina is passionate about promoting education and cultural exchange.
Her participation is a significant moment for her country. Madina aims to make Kazakhstan proud on the global stage. Her story is one of ambition and determination.
23. Kosovo – Edona Bajrami
Edona Bajrami, 36, from Pristina, Kosovo, represents a country that has placed four times in Miss Universe history. Edona aims to bring the first Miss Universe crown to Kosovo. She is known for her beauty and intelligence.
Edona’s journey in pageantry is marked by her dedication to her studies and community. She hopes to showcase the rich cultural heritage of Kosovo. Edona is passionate about promoting cultural diversity and unity.
Her participation is a significant moment for her country. Edona aims to make Kosovo proud on the global stage. Her story is one of elegance and determination.
24. Kyrgyzstan – Maya Turdalieva
Maya Turdalieva, 25, from Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, represents a country that has never been placed at Miss Universe. Maya aims to secure Kyrgyzstan’s first placement. She is known for her intelligence and beauty.
Maya’s journey in pageantry is marked by her dedication to her studies and community. She hopes to highlight the rich cultural heritage of Kyrgyzstan. Maya is passionate about promoting education and cultural exchange.
Her participation is a significant moment for her country. Maya aims to make Kyrgyzstan proud on the global stage. Her story is one of ambition and determination.
25. Laos – Phiranya Thipphomvong
Phiranya Thipphomvong, 28, from Houaphanh, Laos, is an actress and model. Laos has never won the Miss Universe crown but placed once in 2022. Phiranya aims to bring the crown to her country.
She is known for her beauty and charm. Her dedication to her craft marks Phiranya’s journey in pageantry. She hopes to showcase the rich cultural heritage of Laos. Phiranya is passionate about promoting women’s rights and education.
Her participation is a significant moment for her country. Phiranya aims to make Laos proud on the global stage. Her story is one of resilience and determination.
26. Mongolia – Nominzul Zandangiin
Nominzul Zandangiin, 19, from Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, represents a country that has never been placed at Miss Universe. Nominzul aims to secure Mongolia’s first placement. She is known for her intelligence and beauty.
Nominzul’s journey in pageantry is marked by her dedication to her studies and community. She hopes to highlight the rich cultural heritage of Mongolia. Nominzul is passionate about promoting education and cultural exchange.
Her participation is a significant moment for her country. Nominzul aims to make Mongolia proud on the global stage. Her story is one of ambition and determination.
27. Montenegro – Rumina Ivezaj
Rumina Ivezaj, 19, from Tuzi, Montenegro, represents a country that has not been placed as an individual nation. Montenegro has competed separately since 2006. Rumina aims to bring the first Miss Universe crown to her country.
She is known for her beauty and intelligence. Rumina’s journey in pageantry is marked by her dedication to her studies and community. She hopes to showcase the rich cultural heritage of Montenegro.
Rumina is passionate about promoting cultural diversity and unity. Her participation is a significant moment for her country. Rumina aims to make Montenegro proud on the global stage. Her story is one of elegance and determination.
28. Myanmar – Thet San Andersen
The San Andersen, 24, from Yangon, Myanmar, is of Burmese and Swedish descent. Myanmar has only placed once in Miss Universe history. The San aims to bring the crown to her country.
She is known for her artistic talent and entrepreneurial spirit. The San runs her own company called Seint Studios. She is also a media marketer and product designer/developer.
The San hopes to inspire others with her creativity and dedication. Her participation is a significant moment for her country. The San aims to make Myanmar proud on the global stage. Her story is one of innovation and determination.
29. Netherlands – Faith Landman
Faith Landman, 27, from Zandvoort, Netherlands, is a maternity photographer and advocate. She is a mother to her son, Ace, and engaged to her fiancé. The Netherlands won the Miss Universe crown once in 1989.
Faith aims to bring another title to her country. She is known for her compassion and dedication to children’s rights. Her charitable work in Tanzania marks faith’s journey in pageantry. She hopes to inspire others with her story of giving and service.
Faith’s participation is a significant moment for her country. She aims to make the Netherlands proud on the global stage. Her story is one of compassion and determination.
30. New Zealand – Franki Russell
Franki Russell, 30, from Dunedin, New Zealand, is a reality star and actress. New Zealand last competed in Miss Universe in 2019. Franki aims to bring the first Miss Universe crown to her country.
She is known for her advocacy against cyberbullying. Her dedication to social causes marks Franki’s journey in pageantry. She hopes to inspire others with her story of resilience and advocacy. New Zealand won the Miss Universe crown once in 1983.
Franki’s participation is a significant moment for her country. She aims to make New Zealand proud on the global stage. Her story is one of courage and determination.
31 Paraguay – Naomi Méndez
Naomi Méndez, 32, from Asunción, Paraguay, was appointed to represent her country. Paraguay has never won the Miss Universe crown. Naomi aims to bring the first title to her country. She is known for her beauty and intelligence.
Naomi’s journey in pageantry is marked by her dedication to her studies and community. She hopes to showcase the rich cultural heritage of Paraguay. Naomi is passionate about promoting cultural diversity and unity.
Her participation is a significant moment for her country. Naomi aims to make Paraguay proud on the global stage. Her story is one of ambition and determination.
32. Peru – Tatiana Calmell
Tatiana Calmell, 30, from Talara, Peru, previously represented her country at Miss International 2022, placing 2nd runner-up. Peru won the Miss Universe crown once in 1957. Tatiana aims to bring another title to her country.
She is known for her intelligence and beauty. Tatiana’s journey in pageantry is marked by her dedication to her studies and community. She hopes to inspire others with her story of resilience and ambition.
Peru has placed in four of the last five Miss Universe pageants. Tatiana’s participation is a significant moment for her country. Her story is one of determination and grace.
33. Philippines – Chelsea Manalo
Chelsea Manalo, 25, from Meycauayan, Philippines, is the first delegate of African-American descent on her father’s side. The Philippines has won the Miss Universe crown four times. Chelsea aims to bring another title to her country.
She previously competed in Miss World Philippines 2017. Chelsea’s journey in pageantry is marked by her dedication to her studies and community. She hopes to inspire others with her story of resilience and ambition.
The Philippines is known for its passionate pageant culture. Chelsea’s participation is a significant moment for her country. Her story is one of determination and grace.
34. Poland – Kasandra Zawal
Kasandra Zawal, 28, from Bierzglinek, Poland, is pursuing a degree in international relations. Poland has never won the Miss Universe crown. Kasandra aims to bring the first title to her country. She is known for her intelligence and beauty.
Kasandra’s journey in pageantry is marked by her dedication to her studies and community. She hopes to inspire others with her story of resilience and ambition.
Poland last placed in Miss Universe in 2018. Kasandra’s participation is a significant moment for her country. Her story is one of determination and grace.
35. Portugal – Andreia Correia
Andreia Correia, 26, from Sintra, Portugal, is the first black delegate to represent her country. Portugal has yet to win the Miss Universe crown. Andreia aims to bring the first title to her country.
She is known for her intelligence and beauty. Andreia previously won Miss Portugal UK 2019. Her dedication to her community marks her journey in pageantry. Andreia hopes to inspire others with her story of resilience and ambition.
Portugal has placed twice in Miss Universe history. Andreia’s participation is a significant moment for her country. Her story is one of determination and grace.
36. Puerto Rico – Jennifer Colón
Jennifer Colón, 36, from Orocovis, Puerto Rico, is a single mother of three children. Puerto Rico has won the Miss Universe crown five times. Jennifer aims to bring another title to her country. She previously represented Puerto Rico in Miss World 2009.
Jennifer’s journey in pageantry is marked by her dedication to her family and community. She hopes to inspire others with her story of resilience and ambition. Puerto Rico has a strong history in the Miss Universe pageant.
Jennifer’s participation is a significant moment for her country. Her story is one of determination and grace.
37. Venezuela – Ileana Márquez
Ileana Márquez, 28, from Valencia, Venezuela, is the first mother chosen to compete in 2024. Venezuela has won the Miss Universe crown seven times. Ileana aims to bring another title to her country.
She is known for her beauty and intelligence. Ileana’s journey in pageantry is marked by her dedication to her family and community. She hopes to inspire others with her story of resilience and ambition.
Venezuela has placed in 14 of the last 17 Miss Universe pageants. Ileana’s participation is a significant moment for her country. Her story is one of determination and grace.
38. Zimbabwe – Sakhile Dube
Sakhile Dube, 27, from Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, is a big favorite in the competition. Zimbabwe was once placed in Miss Universe history. Sakhile aims to bring the first Miss Universe crown to her country.
She previously placed in the top 8 at Miss Earth 2022. Sakhile’s journey in pageantry is marked by her dedication to her studies and community. She hopes to inspire others with her story of resilience and ambition.
Zimbabwe’s last placement in Miss Universe was in 2000. Sakhile’s participation is a significant moment for her country. Her story is one of determination and grace.
Summary
The Miss Universe 2024 pageant promises to be a spectacular event, showcasing contestants’ diverse beauty, intelligence, and cultural richness worldwide. As these remarkable women take the stage, they not only represent their countries but also embody the dreams and aspirations of countless individuals.
Each contestant brings a unique story of resilience, ambition, and grace, making this year’s competition one of the most anticipated in history.
As we look forward to crowning the new Miss Universe, we celebrate the spirit of unity and empowerment that this pageant represents. May the best contestant win, and may her journey inspire many around the globe.
