Denmark has made history at the Miss Universe 2024 pageant, with 21-year-old Victoria Kjær Theilvig being crowned as the winner on November 16, 2024. This marks the first time ever for Denmark to clinch the prestigious title, thrilling fans and supporters alike. The event took place at the CDMX Arena, located in the heart of Mexico City, and saw over 130 contestants from various countries dazzling the audience with their charm and poise.
Theilvig's victory adds to the rich legacy of beauty pageants, where the competition has often encapsulated more than just beauty, delving deep between cultural representation and the empowerment of women. The path to the crown was challenging, with Theilvig showcasing her talents, confidence, and poise throughout the event. She outshined numerous contestants, including Nigeria's Chidimma Adetshina, who finished as the first runner-up, and Maria Fernanda Beltran from Mexico, who secured the third position.
Victoria Kjær Theilvig's might and determination were on full display during the final Q&A round, where she was asked how her life would differ if she were free from judgment. Her response, "I live by each day," reveals her grounded perspective on self-acceptance and authenticity, qualities the Miss Universe organization highly values.
The pageant itself opened with grand festivities, including performances by 131 mariachi musicians and singer Taboo from the Black Eyed Peas, highlighting the vibrant Mexican culture. Hosts Mario López, Olivia Culpo, Zuri Hall, and Catriona Gray ensured the event was as entertaining as it was glamorous.
This year was also marked by inclusivity, as the Miss Universe Organization recently implemented changes to allow mothers and married women to participate. Notably, Isleana Marquez Pedroza, at 28 years old, made history by being the first mother to place in the top five.
Theilvig's achievement is especially remarkable against the backdrop of controversy surrounding previous pageants. The organization has faced scrutiny over allegations of bullying, unprofessional conduct, and discrimination. Following these issues, both former Miss USA Noelia Voigt and Miss Teen USA Uma Sofia Srivastava abdicated their titles just months before this year’s event. This has led to calls for change within the organization.
Theilvig's win is not just about beauty but also signifies progress and change within the Miss Universe pageant. It reflects the overwhelming push for redefining traditional roles of beauty queens and promoting positive representations of women worldwide. The Miss Universe pageant aims to empower contestants to utilize their influence to make societal changes, fostering confidence and leadership skills.
Among the contestants, Alma Cooper of Michigan, also known as the first active-duty soldier to win the Miss USA title, participated, though she fell short of winning the international accolade. Cooper has often navigated her dual roles with grace, advocating for women’s empowerment within the military and continuing to challenge stereotypes.
Chidimma Adetshina, the first runner-up from Nigeria, also captured hearts with her poised responses and has been admired for representing African beauty on such a significant platform. She addressed the importance of respect over likability during her final question, emphasizing, “Respect dey veri important,” connecting with the audience about the significance of self-value and integrity.
Looking back at the competition’s history, it began back in 1952 through the creative vision of Pacific Knitting Mills, which birthed the modern interpretation of beauty pageants after some disagreements with Miss America. Over the years, the event has seen various ownership changes and controversies, including its ties with personalities like Donald Trump, who owned it from 1996 to 2015. It provides insight not only on beauty but on cultural trends and societal norms, continuing to evolve.
The beauty pageant industry has been heavily critiqued for perpetuating unrealistic beauty standards, with critics arguing for more contemporary forms of celebrating femininity. Despite the controversies, advocates of pageants argue they offer platforms for women to express themselves and broaden their leadership skills.
Victoria Kjær Theilvig's crowning, amid these dialogues, drifts light and optimism over the future of beauty contests, as her win is seen as symbolic for young women who aspire to blend beauty with empowerment and societal contributions. The event attendees vividly expressed their support, waving flags from various countries, reinforcing the unity and diversity encapsulated within the Miss Universe pageant.
With Theilvig’s new reign as Miss Universe, her advocacy may inspire young girls globally to embrace their individuality, break barriers, and aim for greater heights, both personally and professionally. This year’s event not only showcased beauty but also the enduring message of confidence, resilience, and the importance of advocating for positive changes within society.
