In a groundbreaking move, the Miss Universe pageants in Singapore and Nigeria are shattering traditional beauty standards and embracing unprecedented diversity among their 2024 finalists.
For the first time in its 70-year history, Miss Universe Singapore, MUS, has opened its doors to married women, divorcees, mothers, and contestants over 28 years old. The revised regulations have allowed for a more inclusive lineup, with 65 applicants—the most ever. Among the top 15 finalists are Qatrisha Zairyah, a 33-year-old married trans woman; Adelene Stanley, a 29-year-old divorced mother; and Seraphina Yong, the oldest contestant at 34.
“It’s about time I can represent my community on the MUS stage,” said Qatrisha, who was the first runner-up at Miss International Queen 2023. “MUS is a good opportunity for me to share about my life, my struggles, failures, fears, fighting discrimination, and how I’m achieving my dreams to become a successful trans woman.”
Across the continent, Miss Universe Nigeria, MUN, also made headlines by inviting Chidimma Adetshina, a 23-year-old law student who recently withdrew from the Miss South Africa pageant due to nationality issues. Adetshina, who was born in South Africa to a Nigerian father and Mozambican mother, faced backlash and an investigation by the South African Home Affairs Department.
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Despite the controversy, MUN extended their support and encouragement to Adetshina, formally inviting her to compete and represent her father’s native land on the international stage. The pageant aims to showcase the beauty, intelligence, and diversity of Nigerian women.
The changes in both Singapore and Nigeria reflect the evolving standards of beauty and the growing demand for inclusivity in the pageant industry. As the Miss Universe Organization continues to adapt, it sets an example for other competitions to follow suit.
“The Miss Universe pageant is very inclusive now, and Singapore has embraced the change,” said Elaine Daly, MUS’ national director and Miss Universe Malaysia 2003.
With the grand finals of both competitions approaching, all eyes are on the diverse and talented finalists who are poised to challenge traditional beauty norms and inspire future generations of women to embrace their unique qualities.
Credible News.ng
