The 73rd edition of the Miss Universe pageant is set to occur in Mexico City this Saturday.
Over 120 women from various countries are vying for the prestigious title.
This year’s participants include a biochemist, a mother of three, and a former figure skating champion.
The excitement surrounding Miss Universe has returned, with more than 120 remarkable women competing for the coveted crown.
The event will unfold on Saturday evening in Mexico City, where the reigning Miss Universe 2023, Sheynnis Palacios—who made history as Nicaragua’s first winner—will crown her successor.
Below is an introduction to each contestant participating in this year’s competition.
Albania: Franceska Rustem
Miss Albania 2024.
Courtesy of Miss Universe
Nineteen-year-old Franceska Rustem is among the youngest competitors at this year’s pageant. Hailing from Durrës, Albania, she works as both a model and television host while actively campaigning against bullying on her social media platforms.
Angola: Nelma Ferreira
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Courtesy of Miss Universe
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Miss Universe
Miss Belarus 2024.
Hector Vivas/Getty Images
Aniqa Maisha Alam, aged 32, embodies multiple roles: she is a devoted mother, a skilled makeup artist, and an advocate for women’s empowerment.
After tying the knot seven years ago, she celebrated the arrival of her first child—a son—just last year.
Belarus: Eleonora Kachalovskaya
Miss Belarus 2024.
Hector Vivas/Getty Images
At just 24 years old, Eleonora Kachalovskaya is deeply passionate about sports and travel. She actively advocates for children and teenagers with special needs.
A proud graduate of the Belarusian State University of Culture and Art, she combines her love for culture with her advocacy work.
Belgium: Kenza Ameloot
Miss Belgium 2024.
Courtesy of Miss Universe
Kenza Ameloot is a dynamic business student at age 22 who also works as a professional model. Her true passions lie in supporting underprivileged children and enhancing educational opportunities for students.
During holidays or free time, Ameloot frequently travels to Rwanda to connect with her mother’s heritage.
Bonaire: Ruby Pouchet
Miss Bonaire 2024.
Courtesy of Miss Universe
Ruby Pouchet (29) serves as both a communications specialist and government official. She has an unwavering commitment to environmental protection and believes that women can spearhead sustainability efforts.
Notably, Pouchet makes history as the first woman from Bolivia to participate in the Miss Universe competition in over two decades.
Botswana: Thanolo Keutlwile
Miss Botswana 2024.
Courtesy of Miss Universe
Thanolo Keutlwile (28) practices medicine specializing in women’s health at Princess Marina Hospital. With degrees in medicine and surgery under her belt,
she has initiated “Diamond For Development,” which showcases how Botswana leverages its diamond resources while promoting sustainable industry practices.
Brazil: Luana Cavalcante
Miss Brazil 2024.
Courtesy of Miss Universe
Luana Cavalcante (25) made headlines by becoming the first married woman and mother to win the title of Miss Brazil.
She balances modeling with motherhood while aspiring to inspire her son through her journey within the pageant world.
British Virgin Islands: Deyounce Lowenfield
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United States: Prasath
Miss United States 2024.
Courtesy of Miss Universe
Prasath dedicates a significant portion of her time to volunteer work and community service.
Her primary focus is on empowering women and children to break free from the cycles of poverty and educational challenges. To amplify their voices, she founded the Voice for Change – Tuk Chet Association, aiming to create meaningful change for these demographics.
Cameroon: Noura Njikam
Miss Cameroon 2024.
Courtesy of Miss Universe
Noura Njikam, aged 25, has diverse interests with a strong inclination towards art and culture.
She actively advocates against domestic violence through her online platforms while motivating youth to raise their voices against social injustices.
Noura’s commitment extends beyond personal interests; she aims to inspire others in her community through various initiatives.
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Celebrating Diversity: Meet the 2024 Miss Universe Contestants
Cuba: Marianela Ancheta
Miss Cuba 2024.
Courtesy of Miss Universe
At just 31 years old, Marianela Ancheta has made history as the first woman to represent Cuba in the Miss Universe pageant since 1967. She expressed her pride in donning her nation’s sash on Instagram. In addition to her modeling career, Ancheta is a businesswoman and a passionate advocate for mental health awareness.
Curaçao: Kimberly de Boer
Miss Curaçao 2024.
Courtesy of Miss Universe
Nineteen-year-old Kimberly de Boer aspires to make her mark in the art world. Currently studying graphic design, she plans to further her education in art history in the Netherlands. De Boer also expresses herself through painting, using it as both an artistic outlet and a therapeutic practice.
Cyprus: Katerina Dimitriou
<Miss Cyprus 2024.
Courtesy of Miss Universe
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p>Katerina Dimitriou, at age twenty-nine, brings her fashion expertise into the spotlight at this year’s competition. Having started modeling at twelve years old, she now thrives as a social media influencer who shares glimpses of her stylish outfits from around the globe on Instagram.
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Spotlight on Miss Universe 2024 Contestants
Eritrea: Snit Tewoldemedhin
Miss Eritrea 2024.
Image courtesy of Miss Universe
At just 25 years old, Snit Tewoldemedhin is leveraging her participation in the Miss Universe pageant to pay tribute to two significant figures in her life. She draws inspiration from her sister, who has Down syndrome, and her late mother, a breast cancer survivor.
Estonia: Valeria Vasilieva
Miss Estonia 2024.
Photo by Hector Vivas/Getty Images
Valeria Vasilieva, aged 23, is not only an actress but also an entrepreneur and social media influencer. In addition to running a talent agency that helps aspiring entertainers realize their dreams, she dedicates time to volunteer at the Centre for Children at Risk in Estonia.
Fiji: Manshika Prasad
Miss Fiji 2024.
Image courtesy of Miss Universe
Manshika Prasad, who is 24 years old, believes that her role extends beyond mere aesthetics within the Miss Universe competition. She passionately advocates for survivors of domestic violence and aims to raise awareness about preventing future incidents against women.
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Video Message from Desplan
Miss Guatemala 2024
Courtesy of Miss Universe
In a recent video, Desplan expressed her desire to leverage her platform to assist individuals affected by sickle cell anemia, a cause close to her heart due to family members who have faced this illness.
Guatemala: Ana Gabriela Villanueva
Miss Guatemala 2024
Courtesy of Miss Universe
Ana Gabriela Villanueva, aged 22, is both a model and a law student. She has been recognized with a gold medal for her initiative titled “Voices for Change,” which focuses on eradicating chronic malnutrition in Guatemala.
Guinea: Saran Bah
Miss Guinea 2024.
Courtesy of Miss Universe
Saran Bah, at the age of 29, is pursuing her master’s degree in business administration while working with a government nonprofit organization. She holds the distinction of being the first representative from Guinea at the Miss Universe pageant and actively promotes women’s rights and health through her platform called EmpowerHER.
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Spotlight on Miss Universe Contestants: A Global Perspective
Ireland: Labus
Miss Ireland 2024.
Labus aims to leverage her Voices for Change initiative to champion the rights of homeless individuals and immigrant populations.
Israel: Ofir Korsia
Miss Israel 2024.
Courtesy of Miss Universe
Korsia, a 23-year-old actress, dancer, and self-improvement coach, dedicates her time volunteering at a local elementary school. Although she represents Israel in the competition, she currently resides in Los Angeles.
Italy: Glelany Cavalcante
< <Miss Italy 2024.
Courtesy of Miss Universe
Cavalcante is a seasoned model with over fourteen years of experience and is pursuing a degree in communications. She shares her life in Italy with her husband and their beloved dog.
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Jamaica: Rachel Silvera
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At just twenty-five years old, Rachel Silvera is an environmental advocate as well as a pharmacy student in her third year. She previously earned the title of first runner-up at the Miss Jamaica competition held in two thousand twenty-two. < / div >
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p>Kaya Chakrabortty , aged22 , has achieved national recognition as a two-time figure skating champion . Born to ajapanese motherand abangladeshi father ,she holds degreesinhuman biologyandneurosciencefromMichiganStateUniversity . Currentlyworkingas anemergency medical technician,sheaspirestobecome adoctorinthenearfuture.
Kazakhstan: Madina Almukhanova
Miss Kazakhstan 2024.
The copyright belongs to Miss Universe.
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Meet the Inspiring Contestants of Miss Universe 2024
Maria Vicinska – Ukraine
Miss Ukraine 2024.
Image courtesy of Miss Universe
At just 26 years old, Maria Vicinska is not only a model but also serves as a cabin crew member. She passionately advocates for animal rights and aims to “inspire others while giving a voice to the voiceless.”
Nada Koussa – Lebanon
Miss Lebanon 2024.
Image courtesy of Miss Universe
Nada Koussa, aged 26, holds both a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s in clinical psychology. Currently, she practices as a clinical psychologist.
Cassandra Chiu – Macau
Miss Macau 2024.
Image courtesy of Miss Universe
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p>Cassandra Chiu, at the age of 23, makes history as the first representative from Macau to compete in Miss Universe. A dancer and digital creator by profession, she is also dedicated to advocating for mental health awareness and animal rescue.
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Mongolia: Nominzul Zandangiin
Miss Mongolia 2024.
Hector Vivas/Getty Images
Nominzul Zandangiin, an 18-year-old advocate for accessible education, aims to leverage her platform for this cause as highlighted in her Voice for Change video.
“I embody the strength and resilience of a Mongolian woman, raised on expansive plains and enriched by a proud lineage,” she states in her Miss Universe biography. “I carry forward the legacy of my ancestors while chasing my aspirations on an international level.”
Montenegro: Rumina Ivezaj
Miss Montenegro 2024
Hector Vivas/Getty Images
At just 19 years old, Rumina Ivezaj makes history as the inaugural Miss Montenegro to participate in the Miss Universe pageant.
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North Macedonia: Tea Gjorgievska
Miss North Macedonia 2024.
Hector Vivas/Getty Images
At just 21 years old, Tea Gjorgievska is making history as the inaugural representative of North Macedonia at the Miss Universe competition.
Her mission, as outlined in her biography, is to “cultivate a world where every individual feels appreciated and empowered to express themselves.”
“I am convinced that genuine change arises from supporting one another and fostering environments where everyone can flourish with self-assurance and purpose,” she stated.
Norway: Lilly Sødal
Miss Norway 2024.
Hector Vivas/Getty Images
Lilly Sødal, aged 21, first entered the Miss Norway pageant in 2021. She is currently pursuing studies in sustainable entrepreneurship and innovation.
A video on her No YouTube channel, reveals her ambition to leverage her platform for raising awareness about climate change. She actively promotes personal sustainability practices and eco-friendly living.
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Miss Universe 2024 Contestants: A Glimpse into Their Lives
Puerto Rico: Liza María Vélez
Miss Puerto Rico 2024.
Hector Vivas/Getty Images
Liza María Vélez, a single mother of three, is an esthetician and iridologist. In 2009, she achieved the title of first runner-up at Miss Puerto Rico and went on to represent her nation at Miss World that same year. Additionally, she gained recognition by appearing in the Bravo reality series “Mexican Dynasties” in 2019.
Romania: Loredana Salanță
Miss Romania 2024.
Hector Vivas/Getty Images
Loredana Salanță, aged 32, has an academic background in history, film studies, and law. She works as an international model and also serves as a freelance journalist covering prestigious film festivals such as Venice and Cannes. Furthermore, she holds the position of international voter for the Golden Globes.
Russia: Valentina Alekseeva
Miss Russia 2024.
Hector Vivas/Getty Images
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Saint Lucia: Skye Faucher
<Miss Saint Lucia 2024. Hector Vivas/Getty Images
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The talented Skye Faucher is a cancer genomics scientist aged just 26. She completed both her master’s and bachelor’s degrees at Fisk University in Nashville with a focus on biochemistry, molecular biology, and computational biology. In addition to her scientific pursuits, Faucher excels as a volleyball player while advocating for environmental conservation.
The remarkable Haylani Kuruppu made history by being the first Miss Samoa to grace the Miss Universe stage after nearly four decades. Previously recognized as first runner-up at Miss Global competition held in early-2023; according to Samoa Observer reports; Kuruppu balances roles between social work fitness training while also being an author!
Aged only twenty-three years old Fatou Bintou Gueye stands out not only because she’s representing Senegal but also because it’s been since nineteen eighty-seven that anyone from Senegal has participated! This pageantry queen passionately advocates for women’s education & empowerment throughout Senegal!
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span CLASS =’ copyright ‘ > HECTOR VIVAS /GETTY IMAGES /span > fig caption > figure > p > Ivana Trišić Relic , age thirty , holds a degree from law school . Fluent in Serbian , English , Spanish ; according to her bio she focuses on ending global hunger issues stemming back towards childhood experiences during Serbia’s wars throughout nineties which inspired advocacy against homelessness & malnutrition ! div >
div CLASS =’ contestant ‘ > h3 > SINGAPORE : CHARLOTTE CHIA
figure >< img SRC =" https :// i . insider . com /673850f0fa0140cdd563e52f ? format = jpeg " HEIGHT ="30000 WIDTH ="20000 ALT =" MISS SINGAPORE "/ > fig caption > MISS SINGAPORE
span CLASS =’ copyright ‘ > HECTOR VIVAS /GETTY IMAGES/span > fig caption > figure > p > Charlotte Chia (26) serves currently directing communications within Singapore Women’s Association – nonprofit organization dedicated towards empowering women children elderly populations alike ; holding dual master’s degrees one each strategic public relations another law ! div >
div CLASS =’ contestant ‘ > h3>SLOVAKIA : PETRA SIVÁKOVÁ
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PETRASiváková(24)hasbeenmodelinginternationallysinceage15whilealsoengaginginSocialMediaMarketingstudyinginteriordesigncurrentlyworkingonherjewelrybrand! DIV >
DIVCLASS=”CONTESTANT”>’ H31>SOMALIA:‘ FIGURE’>‘ FIG CAPTION’MISS SOMALIA’ ‘SPANCLASS=COPYRIGHT’HECTOR/VIVAS.GETTYIMAGES’/SPAN’‘ P>Khadija Omar (23) makes history representing Somalia becoming its very first participant ever competing within this prestigious event! Notably backin’21shewasalsofirstpageantryqueenwearing hijabattheglobalstageofmissworldafterbeingbornatrefugeecampinhagaderaKenyabeforemigratingtoCanadaat10yearsoldnowworkingasamodelmakeupartistentrepreneur! DIV >
Michelle Jiménez, a 21-year-old from Barcelona, has an inspiring story. As reported by DR1.com, she spent her teenage years in the foster care system from ages 12 to 18.
“I am incredibly thankful because everything I experienced has shaped the woman I am today,” she shared during an interview.
Sri Lanka: Melloney Dassanayake
Miss Sri Lanka 2024.
Hector Vivas/Getty Images
Melloney Dassanayake, aged 25, holds a degree in business administration. Her Miss Universe biography highlights her past as a national basketball player and her current roles as a model, international banker, and part-time television host.
Suriname: Pooja Chotkan
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Pooja Chotkan is making history at just 22 years old as the first representative of Suriname at Miss Universe since 1999. With a background in geosciences, she is dedicated to environmental advocacy and empowering youth.
<< div class = " slide " >> << div class = " slide-title " >> Thailand: Opal Suchata Chuangsri << / div >> << div class = " slide-image " >> << figure >> << img src = " https://i.insider.com/673852ac192f52589858ffd1?format=jpeg " height = "2419" width = "3225"
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<< / figure >> << / div >> << div class =" slide-content "> <<< p >> At just age of 21 , Opal Suchata Chuangsri holds a bachelor’s degree in international relations and dreams of becoming a diplomat one day. She underwent breast lump removal surgery at age 16 , which inspired her to advocate for breast cancer awareness. <<< / p >> <<< / d iv>> <<< d iv>>
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UAE: Emilia Dobreva
Miss UAE 2024.
Hector Vivas/Getty Images
Emilia Dobreva, aged 27, has made history as the inaugural Miss United Arab Emirates to participate in the Miss Universe pageant. She is also a proud mother of three.
Dobreva’s modeling career commenced at the young age of 12. She has graced the runway during New York Fashion Week and featured on the cover of Harper’s Bazaar Vietnam, as reported by Harper’s Bazaar Arabia.
Ukraine: Alina Ponomarenko
Miss Ukraine 2024.
Hector Vivas/Getty Images
At just 21 years old, Alina Ponomarenko secured her title as Miss Ukraine through an online selection process amid the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
Ponomarenko holds a degree in international law and justice and began her legal career at a law firm when she was only 15. She initiated the “Tree of Love,” an initiative aimed at assisting elderly residents in Odesa, Ukraine.
Uruguay: Yanina Lucas
Miss Uruguay 2024. Hector Vivas/Getty Images
Yanina Lucas, aged 28, holds a degree in software engineering and has been immersed in programming since she was 15 years old. Currently balancing her roles as both a model and software developer.
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Vietnam: Cao Kỳ Duyên
Miss Vietnam 2024.
Image courtesy of Miss Universe
Cao Kỳ Duyên, aged 28, is a multifaceted individual excelling as a model, health influencer, and entrepreneur with her own fashion label.
She has participated in various Vietnamese reality television programs such as “The Amazing Race Vietnam” and “The Face Vietnam.”
Zambia: Brandina Lubuli
Miss Zambia 2024.
Image courtesy of Miss Universe
Brandina Lubuli is a 28-year-old lab technologist who holds a business administration degree from the National Institute of Public Administration.
A passionate philanthropist and advocate for women’s rights, she makes history as the first married woman and mother to represent Zambia at the Miss Universe pageant.
<< divclass = ' slide-content ' >> << p >> Sakhile Dube is a talented fashion designer at age 28. She previously earned recognition by winning the title of Miss Supranational Africa in 2023. << / p >> << p >> As highlighted in her biography for Miss Universe, she actively champions healthcare initiatives aimed at ensuring ”universal access to quality medical services” within Zimbabwe. << / p >> << / div >> << / div >>
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