The 71st Miss Universe pageant is different than any other in its history with a renewed focus on inclusivity and feminism
After a day of stunning performances and fierce competition, a new beauty queen was crowned Miss Universe, and the celebrations finally began. However, we are not just celebrating a woman’s beauty and advocacy like before, but the historical day also marks the beginning of a new era for Miss Universe.
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Women-led organization
One of the most notable changes in the 71st Miss Universe is that the organization’s ownership was acquired by Thai businesswoman and proud transwoman Anne Jakapong Jakrajutatip under JKN Global Group. Since then, the Miss Universe organization has undergone significant changes in a year.
The roles of women who ran and participated in the historic event were highlighted in this year’s pageant. The candidates who ran for the coveted title used their platforms to advocate for a variety of causes, including Celeste Cortesi’s cape that featured the handprints of children from Marawi, R’Bonney Gabriel’s campaign to promote sustainable fashion, and other impactful stories of women who belonged in this year’s selection committee.
The platform was also joined by former titleholders like Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray, Miss Universe 2021 Harnaaz Sandhu, Miss Universe 2012 Olivia Culpo, American personality Jeannie Mai Jenkins, and many more empowered women on the judges’ panel.
Diversity and inclusivity
The newly crowned Miss Universe R’Bonney Gabriel is a true representation of beauty, grace, and intelligence. That is why her victory is more than just a personal triumph. It is also a source of hope and inspiration for other women who aspire to be unique in their own ways. Under this new leadership, the pageant has made a conscious effort to promote inclusivity with a more diverse range of candidates, allowing transwomen, mothers, and married women to join the competition.
In addition to these changes, the new owner, Anne Jakapong, has also made a commitment to empower women with a focus on eliminating the traditional perceptions of beauty and diversity. This new direction is not only in line with current cultural and societal trends, but it also allows the organization to continue to be a force for good in the universe.
A meaningful tribute to former Miss USA, Cheslie Kryst
During the event, the organization allotted a time for silence to remember the former beauty queen who passed away almost a year ago. They also played a tribute video to remember Cheslie’s journey as one of the candidates who never shied away from preaching her advocacy. Cheslie worked as a litigation attorney and used her platform to advocate for various causes, including criminal justice reform and women’s empowerment. She was a role model for young women who looked up to her for her intelligence, beauty, and drive.
The Miss Universe organization’s efforts to pay tribute to the late beauty queen was another moment that reached its audience, with a reminder to pursue their dreams and not let societal expectations hold them back. The legacy of Miss USA Cheslie Kryst is a true inspiration to many, and her contributions to the pageant industry will always be remembered.
Photos from ANNE JAKRAJUTATIP (via Instagram)
