Nicaraguan Sheynnis Palacios was voted the world’s most beautiful woman on Saturday at the 72nd Miss Universe pageant in El Salvador, which for the first time included mothers and two transgender candidates.
This was Nicaragua’s first victory in the competition. The Thai was elected first runner-up and Australian Moraya Wilson came third.
Sheynnis Palacios, 23, received the crown from American R’Bonney Gabriel, Miss Universe 2022.
The most beautiful woman in the world, who prevailed over the 83 other contestants who paraded in swimsuits, evening gowns and traditional costumes, considered humility and gratitude to be her main qualities.
Responding to the jury’s final question, the Nicaraguan candidate stressed the importance of equal pay for women, so that they can “work in any field”.
“There are no limits for women,” she asserted.
ALSO READ: Janet Jackson to Continue ‘Together Again Tour’ Through 2024
Mothers in the competition
Colombian Maria Camila Avella, 28, and Michelle Cohn, from Guatemala, were the first two mothers to enter the competition. The former made it through to the five finalists in what the organizers said was a more open competition.
A transgender woman and a curvy woman
Portugal’s Marina Machete, a transgender woman, and Nepal’s Jane Garret, the first curvaceous candidate to take part in Miss Universe, also made the top 20.
The election took place in the west of the capital, in the presence of the President of El Salvador, Nayib Bukele.
The organizers announced that the next edition would be held in Mexico.