Mexico’s candidate for Miss Universe brought home the Miss Universe crown on Sunday, while Miss Myanmar made her country’s voice heard on the current coup they are facing.
The pageant, held at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida, marked its return after the competition was not pushed through last year due to the virus.
The 26-year-old Andrea Meza from Mexico won against other finalists from Brazil and Peru.
This year’s event was hosted by television celebrity, Olivia Culpo, and actor Mario Lopez.
Included in the competition analysts were former Miss Universe beauties Paulina Vega, Cheslie Kryst and 2017 title holder, Demi-Leigh Tebow. The winner was determined by eight judges.
Filled with emotions, Meza flaunted her twinkling red evening gown as she took her walk on the stage as the Miss Universe. She also turned back to her fellow contestants for a group hug.
The Mexican beauty stood out among the more than 70 women from different countries in this year’s pageant.
Also in this year’s competition, Myanmar’s representative Thuzar Wint Lwin stole the attention of the public through airing the coup happening in her country.
Lwin finished at the top 21.
“Our people are dying and being shot by the military every day,” the candidate said. “Therefore I would like to urge everyone to speak out about Myanmar.”
Lwin was declared winner for the national costume portion in which she showcased traditional Burmese patterns in her outfit and lifted up a sign saying “Pray for Myanmar.”
Another candidate from Singapore also made a call through the Miss Universe stage as her cape, carrying the colors of her country’s flag, bore the words “Stop Asian Hate.” She completed her outfit with a sparkly red bodysuit and boots.
