Miss Nicaragua Sheynnis Palacios Crowned as Miss Universe 2023 Winner.

Sheynnis Palacios of Nicaragua emerged victorious at the Miss Universe 2023 competition on November 18th. Discover more about her journey and take a look at the contestants through a collection of photos.

Sheynnis Palacios, hailing from Nicaragua, clinched the title at the 72nd final of the international competition held in San Salvador, El Salvador, on November 18th. She made history as the first contestant from Nicaragua to win the coveted Miss Universe pageant. The 23-year-old, who is a TV host and model, outshone her competitors, including first runner-up Anntonia Porsild from Thailand and second runner-up Moraya Wilson from Australia.

Among the top 10 finalists who made it to the ultimate stage were Camila Avella from Colombia, Isabella García-Manzo from El Salvador, Camila Escribens from Peru, Michelle Dee from the Philippines, Karla Guilfú Acevedo from Puerto Rico, Athenea Pérez from Spain, and Diana Silva from Venezuela.

A total of 84 contestants participated in the Miss Universe 2023 pageant, showcasing their elegance in evening gowns, swimsuits, and national costumes. Sheynnis Palacios stunned in a black embellished costume designed by Jorge Salazar Caliz, inspired by the Nicaraguan Grackle, a bird native to her country.

Just hours before the grand final, Palacios, a seasoned pageant participant, took to Instagram to share a heartfelt message about realizing a childhood dream by participating in the global competition.

“In this very night, I dedicate myself to my inner child and to all the young girls who aspire to make this dream come true,” she expressed in Spanish. “Let the sky be the only limit, dream so grand that it appears impossible to others, because it is precisely there that you’ll discover your dreams and aspirations can overcome any obstacles. Remember to pursue them with unwavering determination, unyielding perseverance, and unwavering passion.”

She went on, “To my beloved homeland, I extend my heartfelt gratitude for allowing me to be an ambassador of your rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and our collective identity and colonial charm. My Nicaragua… it’s a privilege to proclaim your name loud and clear once more tonight, proving to the universe that even though our homeland may be small, our dreams are boundless.”