Miss Universe 2024: A Historic Win for Denmark

Victoria Kjær Theilvig, a 21-year-old from Denmark, etched her name in history by becoming the first Dane to ever win the Miss Universe crown. The 73rd Miss Universe competition, held in Mexico City on November 16th, 2024, saw Theilvig triumph over 125 other contestants, captivating audiences and judges alike. This victory marks a significant milestone not only for Denmark but also for the competition itself, underscoring the evolving representation and inclusivity within the pageant.

The Competition: A Glimpse into the Glittering Spectacle

The Miss Universe 2024 pageant was a spectacle of beauty, talent, and grace. The initial 125 contestants were narrowed down to a select 30 through preliminary events, including a highly anticipated national costume competition. These 30 then showcased their elegance in swimwear and evening gowns before 12 finalists were chosen to advance to the final question and answer segment. Amongst the top 5 finalists was Ileana Marquez Pedroza of Venezuela, a 28-year-old mother making history by being amongst the top 5 after the competition removed its age restrictions. The competition this year was one of the most inclusive ever, with a record number of contestants over 28, highlighting the evolving standards of beauty and the celebration of diversity.

Theilvig's Journey: From Dancer to Miss Universe

Theilvig's journey to the Miss Universe crown is a testament to her dedication, resilience, and remarkable talent. A competitive dancer and aspiring lawyer, she is also an entrepreneur, demonstrating a diverse skill set and a drive to succeed. Her multifaceted personality shone throughout the competition, captivating both audiences and judges. In her answer to the final question, on how she would live differently if no one judged her, she revealed her unwavering commitment to her beliefs, stating: “I live by each day.” This authenticity resonated with the audience, cementing her image as a woman of integrity.

Her advocacy work

Beyond her accomplishments in dance and business, Theilvig is a passionate advocate for mental health and animal rights. Her commitment to these causes further solidifies her image as a role model for young women. Her dedication to using her platform to champion important social issues reflects the changing landscape of beauty pageants, placing emphasis on substance and advocacy alongside traditional ideals of beauty.

A Historic Moment: Breaking Barriers and Embracing Inclusivity

Theilvig's win wasn't just about personal achievement; it also represented a significant step forward for inclusivity within the Miss Universe competition. This year marked a watershed moment in the competition's 72-year history, with the removal of age restrictions, allowing women over 28 to participate for the first time. The inclusion of Beatrice Njoya of Malta, the first contestant in her 40s to reach the grand finale, exemplifies this shift. The changes are a response to growing calls for modernization and a more representative pageant. The organization also lifted a ban on mothers and married women in 2023, fostering a more inclusive and representative platform.

The top 5 finalists

Theilvig's victory marked a series of firsts for the Miss Universe competition. Chidimma Adetshina of Nigeria took first runner-up, becoming the first Miss Nigeria to ever make the top five. Other milestones included Miss Egypt, Logina Salah, the first contestant with vitiligo to compete, and the historic participation of several countries like Cuba, returning after a long absence, and others making their debut in the pageant.

A New Era for Miss Universe

Theilvig's victory marks not just a win for Denmark, but a significant shift in the narrative surrounding beauty pageants. Her journey is a symbol of the evolving standards of beauty, showcasing that success in pageantry is intertwined with intelligence, compassion, and a commitment to advocacy. It underscores the move toward a more inclusive and representative platform, valuing diversity and celebrating women's multifaceted achievements. The future of Miss Universe is brighter than ever, reflecting the multifaceted realities of the modern world. Her message to viewers, “keep fighting … no matter where you come from,” underscores this shift in the focus of the competition. The competition has clearly evolved beyond traditional beauty standards and into a progressive platform that champions inclusivity and social advocacy.

The Future is Now: A New Reign Begins

Theilvig's tenure as Miss Universe promises to be impactful, driven by her passion for animal welfare and her dedication to empowering young women. Her entrepreneurial background will undoubtedly be instrumental in her advocacy work, enabling her to devise innovative strategies for social change. With her unique combination of skills, passion, and determination, Theilvig is poised to make a meaningful difference in the lives of many. The world watches with anticipation as this extraordinary young woman embarks on her remarkable journey as Miss Universe, representing not only Denmark but also the aspirations of countless women across the globe. Her win represents a pivotal moment in the history of the Miss Universe competition, showcasing the importance of inclusivity and the powerful impact of advocacy. It’s a testament to the evolving standards of beauty and the recognition of diverse talents. The future is bright, and the reign of Victoria Kjær Theilvig promises to be nothing short of extraordinary. It’s a victory for Denmark, a victory for inclusivity, and a victory for the evolving spirit of Miss Universe itself.