Miss Universe 2023 Embraces Inclusivity with the Participation of Two Transgender Women, a Plus-Size Model, and Mothers for the First Time.
The 72nd edition of the Miss Universe pageant underscores its commitment to diversity and inclusivity. This groundbreaking year sees the participation of two transgender women, two mothers, and a plus-size model vying for the coveted crown. During the preliminary phase in El Salvador, the evening gown and swimsuit rounds showcased history-making moments, with Miss Portugal Marina Machete and Miss Netherlands Rikkie Kollé breaking barriers as the first transgender women to represent their respective countries in the competition.
At the age of 22, Kollé, a model and staunch LGBTQIA+ rights advocate, spoke out against the hate she encountered following her Miss Netherlands victory in July. Today, she leverages her platform to spread messages of inspiration and support to transgender individuals worldwide. After her debut at the Miss Universe competition, Kollé took to Instagram, writing, “I acknowledge and cherish all of you. I extend my love to everyone, and I hope we can collectively maintain our strength together.
Machete, a 23-year-old flight attendant, achieved her crown in October and celebrated it as a long-awaited dream fulfilled. In a video posted on her Instagram, she expressed her aspirations of challenging perceptions about transgender women and said, “As a trans woman, I’ve encountered numerous hurdles on my journey, but thankfully, especially with the support of my family, love has proven to be more potent than ignorance.”
The Miss Universe Organization modified its regulations to include transgender contestants back in 2012. In 2018, Miss Spain Ángela Ponce made history as the first transgender participant in the competition.
October 2022 witnessed the acquisition of the Miss Universe Organization by Thai transgender entrepreneur Anne Jakrajutatip. Under her ownership, the Miss Universe competition expanded its eligibility criteria, allowing mothers, married individuals, and divorcees to enter the pageant.
Miss Guatemala Michelle Cohn and Miss Camila Avella became the first married women and mothers to enter the competition.
Jane Dipika Garrett, representing Miss Nepal, achieved a significant milestone as the first delegate in the Miss Universe competition to be a plus-size model. At 22 years old, she passionately advocates for body positivity, mental health awareness, and issues related to hormones, contributing to a more inclusive and diverse representation in the pageant.
Erica Robin, representing Miss Pakistan, is creating a historic moment by becoming the first delegate from her nation to participate in the Miss Universe competition. Her presence in the pageant marks a groundbreaking achievement for Pakistan and adds to the diversity and inclusivity of the Miss Universe platform.
“When I learned that Miss Universe has finally opened up for Pakistani women, I know I have to try and give it my best — because one day — I believe I can also inspire millions of women to push for their dreams and never be afraid and someday they can also say ‘if not now, when!’” Robin shared on Instagram.
The Miss Universe Organization has been marking a year of significant milestones. Just recently, they unveiled their inaugural collaborative merchandise line, featuring swimsuits that made an appearance during the 72nd Miss Universe competition. These swimwear pieces, designed under the label “Miss Universe by Rubin Singer,” are now available for pre-order on missuniverse.com.
Additionally, the 86 contestants of Miss Universe took to the stage for the national costume show on Thursday. The grand finale of the pageant is scheduled to take place in San Salvador on Saturday, where the reigning Miss Universe, R’Bonney Gabriel, will pass on her crown to her successor. Gabriel currently dons the exquisite “Force for Good” crown, crafted by the Lebanese jewelry company Mouawad, adorned with a stunning 993 stones, including diamonds and sapphires.
Former Miss Universe 2012 Olivia Culpo and TV personality Jeannie Mai, alongside Maria Menounos, will serve as hosts for the competition. This marks the first instance in the pageant’s history where an all-female hosting team will take the stage. You can catch the 72nd Miss Universe, streaming at 8 p.m. ET in English on The Roku Channel and in Spanish on Telemundo.
