ICYMI, Miss Universe United Arab Emirates (UAE) is holding its first pageant on November 7—and Filipinos have a huge role in its conception.
First off, former Pinoy Big Brother housemate and beauty queen Franki Russell is set to represent the country in the upcoming pageant. The Fil-Kiwi model and actress has been residing in Dubai for some time, and she’s more than ready to introduce the Philippines to UAE.
“I feel so grateful and honored to be a part of something so historical – the first-ever Miss Universe here in the UAE,” Franki shared on Instagram.
“There’s never been a better time to have a Miss Universe UAE to empower and inspire women from all walks of life. I am excited to challenge myself and grow alongside such beautiful women!”
Meanwhile, a number of Filipino creatives are also set to have a chair in the Miss Universe UAE council, such as fashion designer Furne Amato as the head of creatives, fashion, and design, Maggie Wilson as their overall creative consultant, and the last but not least: Josh Yugen as the organization’s president and national director.
With the goal of “breaking stereotypes,” Miss Universe UAE will be the first of its kind to refrain from holding a swimsuit competition with respect to the Muslim culture.
The Miss Universe UAE coronation night will be held on November 7 in Dubai, with the winner set to represent the United Arab Emirates for the Miss Universe in December in Israel.
