Denmark’s Victoria Kjær Theilvig Shines on the Global Stage
For the first time in history, Denmark’s Victoria Kjær Theilvig has been crowned Miss Universe. The 21-year-old, a competitive dancer and aspiring lawyer, emerged victorious from a pool of over 120 contestants at the glamorous event held in Mexico City.
Victoria’s win marks a transformative moment, not just for Denmark but also for the Miss Universe pageant itself, which embraced new inclusivity rules this year.
An Unforgettable Night
Hosted by Mario Lopez and Olivia Culpo, the pageant featured dazzling performances, including a set by Robin Thicke. The event began with 30 finalists showcasing their talents in swimwear, evening gowns, and a national costume display.
Victoria’s poise and empowering message during the Q&A round captivated the judges. When asked how she would live without judgment, she replied confidently, “I live fully every day. I want to make history and inspire others to do the same.”
Celebrating Diversity
This year’s top five contestants showcased exceptional talent and grace. Chidimma Adetshina of Nigeria and Maria Fernanda Beltran of Mexico were first and second runners-up. They were joined by Thailand’s Suchata Chuangsri and Venezuela’s Ileana Marquez Pedroza, who made headlines as a mother competing under the pageant’s new rules.
A Landmark Year for Miss Universe
The 2024 pageant introduced groundbreaking changes, allowing married women, mothers, and participants over 28 to compete. Beatrice Njoya of Malta became the first woman in her 40s to reach the finals, inspiring a redefinition of beauty standards.
This year also saw first-time participants from Cuba, Belarus, Eritrea, and the UAE, symbolizing the pageant’s growing global reach. However, controversies like the xenophobic backlash faced by Adetshina during her national competition highlighted ongoing challenges.
Despite obstacles, Miss Universe 2024 was a testament to resilience, diversity, and progress.
