Sheynnis Palacios Crowned 2023 Miss Universe

In a dazzling spectacle on Saturday night in San Salvador, Nicaragua’s Sheynnis Palacios was crowned the 2023 Miss Universe, marking a celebration of beauty, intellect, and empowerment. The annual beauty pageant brought together 84 contestants from around the world, each vying for the prestigious title. Among the esteemed panel of judges were notable figures such as model Halima Aden, “Queer Eye” star Carson Kressley, TikTok influencer Avani Gregg, and former Miss Universe winners Janelle Commissiong and Iris Mittenaere.

The journey to the crown involved intense competition, with 20 semi-finalists emerging from the preliminary rounds and global fan votes. The swimsuit and evening gown rounds further narrowed the field, showcasing the diversity and talent of the contestants. Notably, Miss Nepal, the first “curvy” contestant to reach the semi-finals, and Miss Pakistan, who chose a burkini for the swimsuit round, left a mark on the pageant’s history.

After two rounds of hot-topic Q&A sessions, three remarkable women stood as finalists: Sheynnis Palacios of Nicaragua, Anntonia Porsild of Thailand (first runner-up), and Moraya Wilson of Australia (second runner-up). In the final round, Palacios expressed her admiration for 18th-century British philosopher and feminist Mary Wollstonecraft, highlighting the breaking of boundaries and empowerment for women.

During the Q&A sessions, Palacios made a powerful statement emphasizing the absence of limitations for women today, echoing the theme of empowerment and breaking barriers. Her choice of Mary Wollstonecraft, a trailblazer in advocating for women’s rights, added depth to her response, resonating with the pageant’s theme of intelligence and empowerment.

Miss Colombia, Camila Avella, and Miss Puerto Rico, Karla Guilfú, secured spots in the top five, contributing to the diversity of the finalists. Spain’s Athenea Pérez, recognized as Miss Congeniality, added a touch of warmth and camaraderie to the competition.

Sheynnis Palacios now follows in the footsteps of the 2022 Miss Universe, R’Bonney Gabriel of the USA. As the new titleholder, Palacios is poised to carry forward the legacy of grace, intelligence, and empowerment associated with the Miss Universe crown.

The 2023 Miss Universe pageant was not just a display of beauty but a celebration of diversity, intelligence, and the empowerment of women worldwide. Sheynnis Palacios, with her remarkable journey and eloquent responses, emerged as a deserving queen, ready to make a positive impact during her reign. The pageant showcased the strength, resilience, and beauty of women from 84 countries, leaving an indelible mark on the global stage of glamour and empowerment.