Victoria Kjaer Theilvig of Denmark wins Miss Universe 2024

Victoria Kjaer Theilvig's triumph as Miss Universe 2024 marks a significant milestone in Denmark's pageantry history. Held in Mexico City, this prestigious event showcased contestants from various nations, with Theilvig emerging victorious among 129 competitors . Her win is particularly noteworthy as she is the first Danish contestant to achieve this title, which underscores a shift in the representation and recognition of beauty queens from smaller countries on global platforms .

The 21-year-old, a competitive dancer, entrepreneur, and aspiring lawyer, beat more than 120 other contestants to win the annual beauty pageant in Mexico City on Saturday night.

She was applauded by other contestants on stage as she accepted the tiara from reigning titleholder Sheynnis Palacios of Nicaragua.

This year’s finale featured a performance by singer Robin Thicke and was hosted by “Saved by the Bell” star Mario Lopez and former Miss Universe Olivia Culpo.

And Miss Denmark’s winning answer was, “My message to all the world out there watching is no matter where you come from, no matter what your past, you can always turn it into your strength. It will never define who you are. You just have to keep fighting. I stand here today because I want to change. I want to make history and that’s what I’m doing tonight. Never give up. Follow your dreams and that’s exactly what I’m going to do.”

Among them was Beatrice Njoya of Malta, who at 40 became the oldest woman to reach the grand finale.

Adetshina was formerly a Miss South Africa finalist before she was hounded over a nationality row which forced her to represent Nigeria.

It was the fifth time Mexico has hosted the contest, which has been criticized for promoting outmoded ideas of femininity.

Theilvig takes over from the 2023 Miss Universe, Sheynnis Palacios of Nicaragua. Palacios' reign was complicated, to say the least, after allegations that she had been involved in anti-government protests in her country while a student.

The 2024 Miss USA, Alma Cooper of Michigan, did not land a place as a semi-finalist—the first time the USA has missed out in more than a decade.

The significance of Theilvig's victory extends beyond personal achievement; it symbolizes the evolving landscape of international beauty competitions. As more diverse representatives gain recognition on such platforms, they challenge traditional notions of beauty and empower future generations to pursue their aspirations fearlessly.

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Sarah H

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