The Miss Universe 2024 contest has opened its doors to women of all ages for the second consecutive year, allowing the participation of married, divorced, and single mothers. Additionally, the competition has extended its support to women candidates with diverse backgrounds and disabilities.
The novelty of the year highlights the elimination of the age limit, allowing women over 28 to compete for the first time. This change has allowed the participation of candidates as Beatrice Njoya, Miss Universe Malta, who at 40 is the oldest woman in the edition.
Njoya is also the first black woman to win the Miss Malta title. I’m 40 years old and want to break stereotypes in my country”” ,” he said.
Besides, instead of the traditional Top 20 of Semi-finaliststhis year a Top 30 expanding the opportunity to stand out to more participants. The semi-finalists will parade in a gala suit before reducing the group to a top 12, followed by a top five. Unlike other years, there will be no top three; the crown will be awarded directly to one of the five finalists.
This edition will welcome several female candidates, among which it stands out Logina Salah, from Egypt, Who at 34 is the first woman with vitiligo in Miss Universe. The other mothers are Ileana Márquez, Miss Venezuela; Luana Cavalcante, Miss Brazil; Elena Hidalg, Miss Costa Rica; Stephanie Cam, Miss Ecuador; and Jennifer Colón, Miss Puerto Rico.
Besides, Miss Ecuador She faces Hashimoto’s disease, which has led her to wear wigs due to hair loss.
For his part Opal Suchata Chuangsri, Miss Thailand, Only 21 years old and one of Asia’s favorites is a breast cancer survivor. Another participation that stands out is that of Mia le Roux from South Africathe first participant with hearing impairment; and Mara Topic.
Although no transgender competitor this year won a national crown to participate in the world event, there is a 32-year-old girl of size: Jenelle Thongs, Miss Trinidad and Tobago.
This year, the contest will be remembered not only by its beautiful participants, but for its contribution to a concept of beauty that celebrates courage, diversity and inclusion.
This article has been translated after first appearing in Diario El Mundo