Did you know that Miss Mexico also has a degree in software engineering and fights for the eradication of gender violence?
Miss Universe 2021 was crowned on Sunday night in a glittery affair in Hollywood, Florida, and the title went to Miss Mexico, Andrea Meza.
Meza managed to beat her fellow finalists who hailed from Brazil and Peru in the televised event, hosted by Mario Lopez and Olivia Culpo.
Related: Miss Singapore Bernadette Belle Ong Sends #StopAsianHate Message With Miss Universe Costume
The winner was determined by a panel of eight women that included former Miss Universe contestants, Cheslie Kryst, Paulina Vega and Demi-Leigh Tebow. They served as competition analysts as well as commentators.
This year, the competition, which consistently drew criticism in the past for objectifying women, shifted its focus slightly. Instead of simply focusing on looks, the contest focused more on activism and female empowerment over the last few years.
This was more evident this year with many of the contestants using their time in the spotlight to bring awareness to issues such as Asian hate and violence in certain countries.
In fact, just last week, Miss Singapore Bernadette Belle Ong made a very loud and proud statement at the national costume segment of the competition by sweeping onstage in a bodysuit and cape with the words #StopAsianHate painted on the back of her red and white cape.
Violence against Asians has become more rampant particularly in the United States over the past year, particularly since the outbreak of Covid-19.
In speaking about her costume on Instagram, Ong said: "My national costume is inspired by Singapore’s national flag—it symbolises unity for all and social harmony in a multi-racial, multi-cultural and inter-religious country."
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