LATEST: Miss Universe 2024 Top 12 Hot Picks Leaderboard!
The 73rd Miss Universe pageant reached its dazzling finale on November 17, 2024, in the vibrant Arena CDMX in Mexico City. The event, packed with glamour, intellect, and breathtaking moments, saw 125 exceptional contestants reduced to a competitive Top 12. These contenders have wowed both the audience and judges, inching closer to the coveted crown.
Here’s your ultimate guide to this year’s Top 12 Miss Universe finalists, their stories, and what makes them special.
A Night of Elegance and Competition
From the start, the stage was set for an unforgettable evening. The format began with 125 hopefuls from across the globe, narrowing down to a Top 30, and then the sparkling Top 12. These finalists will now face off in the evening gown competition, a segment known for elegance and poise. Only five exceptional candidates will proceed to the Question and Answer round, showcasing their wit and intellect.
Meet the Top 12 Finalists
1. Juliana Barrientos (Bolivia)
Hailing from Bolivia, Juliana’s elegance and confidence have earned her a spot among the elite. Known for her advocacy in education, she’s a role model for young women worldwide.
2. Maria Fernanda Beltran (Mexico)
The home crowd erupted in cheers for Maria, who dazzled with her charm and intelligence. Her advocacy for environmental conservation resonates globally.
3. Ileana Marquez (Venezuela)
Venezuela’s Ileana is a powerhouse, continuing her country’s legacy of excellence in the pageant. Her captivating stage presence is hard to miss.
4. Magali Benejam (Argentina)
Magali’s grace and eloquence have been her strongest assets. Her journey is one of resilience, and her smile lights up the stage.
5. Jennifer Colin (Puerto Rico)
Jennifer is a fierce competitor, blending beauty with brains. Her passion for women’s empowerment has made her a fan favorite.
6. Chidimma Adetshina (Nigeria)
Chidimma is celebrated for her cultural pride and humanitarian efforts. Her performance reflects her determination to make a global impact.
7. Valentina Alekseeva (Russia)
With a background in ballet, Valentina’s movements are as graceful as they are powerful. She’s a strong contender with a heart for charity.
8. Emilia Dides (Chile)
Chile’s Emilia embodies elegance and modernity. Her advocacy for mental health awareness is close to her heart.
9. Opal Suchata Chuangsri (Thailand)
Opal’s stunning traditional costumes and confident demeanor have made her a standout. She’s proud to represent her country’s rich culture.
10. Victoria Kjær Theilvig (Denmark)
Denmark’s Victoria shines with her icy beauty and warm heart. Her campaign for sustainable fashion aligns with her love for nature.
11. Ashley Callingbull (Canada)
Ashley is not just a beauty queen but a trailblazer for Indigenous representation in media. Her story inspires countless others to pursue their dreams.
12. Tatiana Calmell (Peru)
Tatiana’s infectious energy and advocacy for children’s rights have won hearts. She brings a fresh perspective to the competition.
A Star-Studded Judging Panel
This year’s esteemed panel included luminaries like:
- Michael Cinco: Dubai-based Filipino designer known for his glamorous gowns.
- Gabriela Gonzalez: Women empowerment advocate with a global presence.
- Gary Nader: Art collector and philanthropist.
- Eva Cavalli: Austrian entrepreneur and former creative director.
- Emilio Estefan: Star builder and music industry icon.
- Fariana: Colombian actress and advocate for diversity in media.
- Camila Guiribitey: Celebrity dentist with a passion for smiles.
- Nova Stevens: Miss Universe Canada 2020, a strong voice for inclusivity.
The judges’ collective expertise brought a fresh perspective to the competition.
A Familiar Team of Hosts
The night wouldn’t be complete without its stellar hosting team. Catriona Gray, Miss Universe 2018, returned as a commentator, offering valuable insights. Mario Lopez reprised his role as host, bringing charisma to the stage. Joining the Voice for Change project was Miss Universe 2022 R’Bonney Gabriel, adding her unique flair to the judging process.
What’s Next?
The journey isn’t over yet. With the evening gown segment and the nerve-wracking Question and Answer round ahead, the competition will only intensify. Who will claim the Miss Universe 2024 crown and follow in the footsteps of remarkable women before her?
Stay tuned as these extraordinary women continue to inspire and dazzle the world!
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