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Thursday 12th of December 2024

Nairobi, Kenya

Tag: miss south africa

Miss SA Chidimma Vanessa Onwe Adetshina Citizenship Saga: Home Affairs Weighs In

Posted on by Oscar Alochi

The Miss South Africa pageant has been thrust into a national debate over citizenship and identity, sparked by allegations surrounding contestant Chidimma Vanessa Onwe Adetshina’s nationality. With claims of Nigerian parentage and questions about her eligibility to represent South Africa, the controversy has ignited a firestorm of public opinion and political involvement.

At the heart of the matter is Adetshina’s citizenship status. While the Miss South Africa organization maintains that she meets all the necessary requirements, the Department of Home Affairs has offered a complex clarification of South African citizenship laws.

Deputy Minister of Home Affairs, Njabulo Nzuza, emphasized that citizenship can be acquired either by birth (soil) or through parentage (blood). Unlike countries like the United States, where birthright citizenship is granted, South Africa primarily follows the principle of citizenship by descent from a South African parent.

However, the law also provides provisions for individuals born in South Africa to foreign parents to acquire citizenship under certain conditions, such as if their parents held permanent residence permits. This particular point has become a focal point of scrutiny in Adetshina’s case.

Investigations conducted by The Star revealed potential discrepancies between Adetshina’s stated age and the timeline provided by her alleged father, Ben Dlamini. Dlamini, in an interview, claimed to have arrived in South Africa in 2010 on a visitor’s visa and married Adetshina’s mother in 2013. These claims, if accurate, raise questions about the circumstances surrounding Adetshina’s birth and subsequent citizenship acquisition.

The controversy has divided the nation, with political parties taking opposing stances. The EFF has expressed solidarity with Adetshina, condemning xenophobic attacks and defending her right to participate. On the other hand, the Patriotic Alliance has threatened legal action, questioning Adetshina’s eligibility and calling for her disqualification.

As the debate intensifies, the Miss South Africa organization faces increasing pressure to provide concrete evidence supporting Adetshina’s citizenship. The Department of Home Affairs’ clarification has shed light on the complexities of South African citizenship law but has also raised more questions than answers regarding Adetshina’s specific case.

Ultimately, this controversy serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by individuals with mixed heritage and the need for clear and accessible citizenship guidelines. It has also highlighted the deep-seated divisions within South African society on issues of identity, belonging, and representation.

Content courtesy of  NFH Digital Team

Interview with Vanessa Chidimma Vanessa Onwe Adetshina’s Alleged Father Brings New Revelations, Mzansi Suspicious

Posted on by Oscar Alochi

The Miss South Africa pageant continues to be embroiled in controversy, with the spotlight firmly on contestant Vanessa Chidimma Adetshina. Amidst the ongoing backlash over her eligibility to represent the country, a recent interview with a man claiming to be her Nigerian father has introduced a new layer of complexity to the saga.

The interview, which has rapidly circulated online, offers a purported glimpse into the family’s history and the circumstances surrounding their arrival in South Africa. The man, whose identity has not been independently verified, alleges that he came to South Africa in 2010 to attend the FIFA World Cup as a visitor. He claims to have met Vanessa’s mother during this period. Notably, he asserts that they did not have children together at that time, a statement that directly contradicts the previously established narrative about Vanessa’s birth and upbringing.

When pressed about the nationality of his children, the man declared that they hold dual citizenship, being both Nigerian and South African. He emphasized their entitlement to the same rights as any South African citizen.

However, the interview has sparked a wave of skepticism among South Africans, with many expressing doubts about the veracity of the claims. Social media platforms are abuzz with discussions centered around inconsistencies in the timeline, questioning the possibility of Vanessa being born in South Africa if her parents met during the 2010 World Cup.

Furthermore, the man’s admission of holding a visitor’s visa at the time of his arrival has raised eyebrows, prompting speculation about the legality of his extended stay in the country and the circumstances surrounding the birth of his children.

The controversy has deepened the divide among South Africans, with opinions sharply divided. While some sympathize with Vanessa and condemn the xenophobic attacks directed at her, others remain steadfast in their belief that she does not meet the criteria to represent the country.

As the situation continues to unfold, it is evident that the Miss South Africa pageant has become a microcosm of the broader societal issues facing South Africa, including xenophobia, immigration, and national identity. The pageant organizers find themselves in an increasingly difficult position, navigating a complex web of conflicting narratives and public opinion.

It remains to be seen how the Miss South Africa organization will address the latest revelations and whether Vanessa Chidimma Adetshina will be able to weather the storm and continue her journey in the competition.

Content courtesy of NFH Digital Team

Interview with Chidimma Vanessa Onwe Adetshina’s Alleged Father Sparks Controversy in Miss South Africa Contest

Posted on by Oscar Alochi

An interview with a man claiming to be the father of Miss South Africa contestant Vanessa Chidimma Adetshina has brought new revelations about her background, intensifying the scrutiny and backlash she faces from the South African public.

The interview, which has surfaced amidst ongoing controversy, features a man who asserts he is Vanessa’s Nigerian father. In his statements, he provides a detailed account of the family’s history and their journey to South Africa, aiming to clarify their background but inadvertently causing more suspicion among the public.

The Family’s History and Migration to South Africa

According to the man, he traveled to South Africa in 2010 for the FIFA World Cup on a visitor’s visa. During this period, he attended the games with Vanessa’s mother, whom he refers to as Chichi’s mother. He claims that at the time of their visit, they did not have any children.

When questioned about the nationality of his children, he emphasized that they hold dual citizenship: “It’s called dual citizenship, they’re both. They are Nigerian kids that have every single right that you have as a South African.”

Public Reaction and Growing Suspicion

The interview has not quelled the suspicions of the South African public. Instead, it has led to further questions and criticism regarding Vanessa’s eligibility and background. Netizens are particularly focused on the timeline provided by her alleged father, scrutinizing the dates and circumstances of his arrival in South Africa and questioning whether Vanessa was indeed born in the country.

Many are now debating the validity of her South African citizenship and her right to compete in the Miss South Africa pageant. This controversy has not only impacted Vanessa’s reputation but also cast a shadow over the integrity of the competition itself.

The Impact on Vanessa Chidimma Adetshina

The ongoing backlash has made the situation increasingly difficult for Vanessa. As she continues to face criticism and doubts from the public, the revelations from the interview have only exacerbated her plight. What was intended to provide clarity has instead fueled further controversy, leaving Vanessa and her family in a challenging position.

The interview with Vanessa Chidimma Adetshina’s alleged father has opened up more questions than it answered, leading to heightened scrutiny and suspicion from the South African public. As the controversy continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how it will affect Vanessa’s participation in the Miss South Africa pageant and her future endeavors.

Content courtesy of NFH Digital Team

Celebrities Rally in Support of Miss SA Contestant Chidimma Vanessa Onwe Adetshina Against Online Bullying

Posted on by Oscar Alochi

A video featuring Chidimma Vanessa Onwe Adetshina, a contestant in the 2024 Miss South Africa pageant, celebrating with her Nigerian family has sparked significant controversy. The 23-year-old law student and model, born in South Africa to a Nigerian father and a Mozambican/South African mother, has been the target of xenophobic attacks. Some South Africans have issued threats, demanding her withdrawal from the pageant, and questioning her eligibility due to her Nigerian heritage.

In the recently circulated video, Chidimma is seen standing with her family members at a reception held in her honor to celebrate her advancement in the competition. The footage has fueled further backlash, with detractors leveling insults and questioning her right to compete. Despite the growing tensions, Chidimma remains steadfast in her participation, exemplifying resilience amidst adversity.

In recent weeks, the Miss South Africa pageant has found itself at the center of a heated public discourse, not due to the competition itself, but because of the online harassment directed at one of its contestants, Chidimma Adetshina. The young woman has been the target of numerous online attacks, including hateful comments and personal insults. In a show of solidarity and support, several high-profile celebrities have taken a stand against this wave of cyberbullying, calling for respect and kindness in both the digital and real worlds.

Chidimma Adetshina, a 24-year-old model and advocate for mental health awareness, has been outspoken about the challenges she has faced. Despite her resilience and grace, the online vitriol has taken a toll, highlighting the pervasive issue of cyberbullying. Celebrities from various fields have rallied to her defense, leveraging their platforms to denounce the harassment and promote a message of positivity and support.

Among the first to voice their support was actress and philanthropist, Charlize Theron. In a heartfelt social media post, Theron emphasized the importance of empathy and understanding, urging her followers to stand against online bullying. “Chidimma is a shining example of strength and courage,” Theron wrote. “Let’s lift her up and show the world that kindness always wins.”

Similarly, Trevor Noah, the South African comedian and host of “The Daily Show,” used his influential platform to address the issue. In a segment dedicated to online bullying, Noah highlighted the detrimental effects of such behavior on mental health and called for a collective effort to create a more supportive and inclusive online environment. “We must remember that our words have power,” Noah stated. “Let’s use them to build each other up, not tear each other down.”

Musician and international superstar, Sho Madjozi, also lent her voice to the cause. In a moving Instagram video, she praised Chidimma for her resilience and encouraged her fans to spread love and positivity. “Chidimma, you are an inspiration to so many,” Madjozi said. “Stay strong, and know that we stand with you.”

These public endorsements are more than just words; they represent a broader movement towards addressing and combating cyberbullying. As public figures, celebrities have a unique ability to influence and shape public discourse. By speaking out, they not only provide much-needed support to Chidimma Adetshina but also raise awareness about the harmful impact of online harassment.

In response to the overwhelming support, Chidimma expressed her gratitude in a statement, acknowledging the outpouring of love and encouragement she has received. “I am deeply touched by the support from so many incredible people,” she said. “Together, we can create a world where everyone feels valued and respected.”

The collective stand taken by these celebrities underscores the importance of addressing cyberbullying and promoting a culture of respect and kindness. As the Miss South Africa pageant continues, it serves as a reminder that true beauty lies not only in appearance but also in the strength and compassion we show towards one another.

Content Courtesy of NFH Digital Team 

Pageant Politics: Zozi Tunzi Ditches Miss SA After ‘Dress Drama’

Posted on by Oscar Alochi

Did Zozi Tunzi ditch the Miss SA pageant finale and unfollow them on IG – after being asked to pay for her own dresses?

There are numerous rumors claiming that former Miss SA Zozi Tunzi skipped the pageant’s grand finale due to an argument about her costume expenses.

Zimoja claimed that Tunzi was required to fit into her attire for the pageant reality TV program Crown Chasers.

The 2019 Miss Universe winner Zozi also appears to have unfollowed the competition on Instagram.

Zozi Failed To Attend Miss Sa
While many former Miss South Africa contestants, including Tamryn Green, Cindy Nel, Tansey Coetzee, and Melinda Bam, were present at the pageant’s conclusion on Sunday, August 13, Zozi Tunzi did not.

The former monarch, who hosted the six-part television series Crown Chasers, had a significant role in the finale’s build-up.

It’s interesting to see that Zozi Tunzi didn’t post anything about Miss SA’s crowning.
Additionally, she stopped following the official Instagram account.

Who Is To Blame For The Dress Dispute?
Zimoja claims that Zozi Tunzi was asked to use Crown Chasers to pay for her wardrobe bills.
That was not covered by our agreement, a person who wished to remain nameless informed the publication. I was hired as a stylist for the show, not by Zozi, and now I’m being expected to bill her.
A five-part television series called Crown Chasers gave viewers a behind-the-scenes peek at the contest.
The show’s hosts were Zozi and the judges were Leandie du Randt and Bonang Matheba.

Reply From Miss SA
Tumi Moema, Zozi Tunzi’s manager, reportedly acknowledged the dress issue to Zimoja.
“Zozi has nothing to do with the stylist’s payment,” he declared. We did not agree to that. I’ll discuss it with them.

The South African contacted Miss SA for a formal response. “Zozibini Tunzi is an in-demand personality with a full schedule,” it was stated in a statement.
Other than that, the Miss South Africa Organization is unable to comment on Ms.
Tunzi’s schedule or her use of social media. At every Miss South Africa event, she is, nevertheless, warmly greeted and recognized.

“The Miss South Africa title carries with it a lot of hope, aspirations and most importantly, it enables young women from all backgrounds to showcase the power of what one can achieve with the right mindset.

“This is a showcase of intelligent, passionate, and confident young women who are carving various paths toward success. The SABC remains the home of events of national importance and our logline for S3 is ‘Open Up’.”

“Crown Chasers” will be broadcast weekly starting from Saturday, July 8, in the lead-up to the final event and the crowning of a new Miss South Africa, which will take place at Sun International’s SunBet Arena at Time Square in Pretoria on Sunday, August 13.

Content courtesy of The South African & NFH

 

Miss South Africa 2021

Posted on by Fashion Police

Miss South Africa 2021, the 63rd edition of Miss South Africa, is all set to be held in October this year where stunning beauties from all over the country will compete for the national crown. The winner and her runner-ups will represent South Africa at either Miss Universe 2021, Miss World 2022, or Miss Supranational 2022.

The official Top 10 finalists were announced on 3rd August 2021 which included Dr. Moratwe Masima, Cheneil Hartzenberg, Kgothatso Dithebe, Jeanni Mulder, Kaylan Matthews, Bianca Bezuidenhout, Lalela Mswane, Catherine Groenewald, Tiffany Francis, and Zimingonaphakade Mabunzi.

The Top 30 was announced on 6 July 2021 which included Andile Mazibuko, Ane Oosthuysen, Bianca Bezuidenhout, Catherine Groenewald, Cheneil Hartzenberg, Danielle Marais, Eloi¨se van der Westhuizen, Ferini Dayal, Itumeleng Baloyi, Jamie Cloete, Jeanni Mulder, Kaylan Matthews, Keashel van der Merwe, Kgaketsang Mathobisa, Kgatlhiso Modisane, Kgothatso Dithebe, Lalela Mswane, Lehlogonolo Machaba, Licalle Isaacs, Lisanne Lazarus, Mawusive Sibutha, Moratwe Masima, Olin-Shae De La Cruz, Pearl Ntshehi, Precious Mndalama, Pumeza Zibi, Savannah de Almeida, Tiffanu Francis, Tshegofatso Molefe and Zimi Mabunzi.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CXVTwwrN-lO/?utm_source=ig_embed

The judges who determined the Top 30 included Melinda Bam – Miss South Africa 2011, Tamaryn Green – Miss South Africa 2018, Liesl Laurie – Miss South Africa 2015, Bokang Montjane-Tshabalala – Miss South Africa 2010.

The accomplished panel of jury who will crown Miss South Africa included Shannon Esra – Actress, Tamaryn Green – Miss South Africa 2018, Basetsana Kumalo – Miss South Africa 1994, Andrea Meza – Miss Universe 2020 from Mexico, Mamokgethi Phakeng – Vice-Chancellor of the University of Cape Town, Dineo Ranaka – Television and radio personality and Pia Wurtzbach – Miss Universe 2015 from the Philippines.

Content courtesy of Angelopedia NFH Digital Team

Beauty Pageant Boycott: Why Miss South Africa Lalela Mswane is on Her Own in Israel

Posted on by Fashion Police

When Lalela Mswane glided across a Cape Town stage in a red satin ball gown at the finals of the Miss South Africa pageant in October, she moved with the poise of someone who commanded her country’s attention.

But in the days after the 24-year-old law student and model was crowned, that gaze took on a sharp edge.

Pro-Palestine activists began demanding she boycott the Dec. 12 Miss Universe pageant because it will be held in Israel. In mid-November, the South African government withdrew its support for Ms. Mswane’s entry, so she will compete without her country’s backing.

“The atrocities committed by Israel against Palestinians are well documented and Government, as the legitimate representative of the people of South Africa, cannot in good conscience associate itself with such,” wrote the Department of Sports, Arts, and Culture in a statement.

The pageant organizers, meanwhile, soldiered on, stating that Ms. Mswane “would not be bullied” into boycotting the pageant. (The Miss South Africa organization and Ms. Mswane did not respond to requests for comments for this story.)

The Miss Universe competition may seem an unusual place for a government to stake a major geopolitical stand. But in South Africa, activists say the anti-apartheid movement taught them that the struggle against injustice takes place everywhere, from parliamentary debates and mass marches to boycotts of sports games, grapefruits, and yes, even the stage of a beauty pageant.

“It was not our wisdom and strength as South Africans that ultimately delivered us from apartheid – it was the support we had from the international community that backed us up,” says Duduzile Mahlangu-Masango, a board member of Africa4Palestine, formerly known as the Boycott Divestment Sanctions (BDS) movement, which advocates in support of Palestinian rights in South Africa.

“We learned then that when you speak the big language of politics, you don’t bring everyone along. But when you talk about things ordinary people care about, you bring the issue closer to them.”

For those like Ms. Mahlangu-Masango, that kind of activism has a long history. For decades, boycotts and cultural isolation were major weapons in the war against apartheid.

In the 1960s and ‘70s, activists fought to have South Africa barred from major sporting events like the Olympics and World Cup, and advocated for Europeans and Americans to stop buying South African fruit and cigarettes. The liberation movement asked international musicians to boycott South Africa.

In 1976, after a massacre of schoolchildren in Soweto, near Johannesburg, turned the world’s attention to South Africa’s atrocities, nine countries announced they would boycott the Miss World pageant for allowing South Africa to participate. A second boycott followed the next year, forcing the organizers to ban South Africa.

“These calls to isolate South Africa culturally were very important” because they reinforced the country’s exclusion from the global community, says Ottilia Maunganidze, head of special projects at the Institute for Security Studies, a South African think tank.

https://twitter.com/QudsNen/status/1458705474103267330?s=20

Fast forward 45 years and activists are using the same arsenal of tools to try to isolate Israel, she says.

The calls for Ms. Mswane to boycott Miss Universe started almost as soon as the crown was placed on her head in mid-October. Activists staged a protest at the Miss South Africa offices in Johannesburg, and the hashtag #NotMyMissSA began trending on social media. Its supporters, including Nelson Mandela’s grandson, Zwelivelile “Mandla” Mandela, called on the beauty queen to draw parallels between Israel’s occupation of Palestinian lands and the dispossession and violence committed against Black South Africans under apartheid.

“We must persist in isolating Apartheid Israel in the same way that we isolated Apartheid South Africa,” wrote Mr. Mandela on Instagram.

For many former anti-apartheid activists, including those now in government here, the question of Israel and Palestine is a particularly evocative one because it calls up vivid memories of their own history.

“The first time I set foot in Palestine, it was like setting foot into the world I grew up in,” says Ms. Mahlangu-Masango, who was raised during the dying years of apartheid in the 1970s and ‘80s. “I really cannot understand a South African who chooses to forget the history of where we come from.”

For supporters of Ms. Mswane, however, the anger at her misses the mark.

“Lalela will be a role model to young women – not just across the country, but across the African continent,” wrote Stephanie Weil, CEO of the Miss South Africa organization, in a statement on Instagram. “Anyone who wants to rob Lalela of her moment in the spotlight is unkind and short-sighted.” Ms. Mswane herself has not spoken publicly about the controversy over her competition.

https://twitter.com/Lalela_lali/status/1451231266951553029?s=20

Meanwhile, former Greek delegate Rafaela Plastira announced on social media in November that she would boycott the competition in support of Palestinians. (Several days later, the organization in charge of Miss Greece distanced themselves from Ms. Plastira and stated that she was not their delegate.)

“Humanity ABOVE beauty pageants!” she wrote in an Instagram post. Greece is sending Sofia Arapogianni to Israel as the country’s delegate.

Content courtesy of CS Monitor & NFH Digital Team 

Miss Universe South Africa 2020 Natasha Joubert Empowers Fashion Designers

Posted on by Fashion Police

Miss Universe South Africa 2020, Natasha Joubert, has launched #DestinyDesigned, a project to empower fashion designers through her passion for entrepreneurship and design.

Joubert is a fashion designer who owns a clothing company named Natalia Jefferys that she runs with her mother.

#DestinyDesigned is her Miss Universe social cause initiative, whereby South African designers are invited to submit more information on their design label and explain how their business has been affected by Covid-19.

Ten designers will be tasked to make two garments each and have them modeled by former Miss South Africa titleholders and finalists, as well as special guest models, in a virtual fundraiser fashion show that will take place on April 10.

Joubert’s brand will also be part of the show.

After the show, all the garments will be auctioned off online, and proceeds will be given to the designers.

Speaking about the project, Jourbet said: “I am passionate about entrepreneurship. I started my own company in 2016 as circumstances placed me in a position where I needed to become self-sufficient. I was also modeling, and I started making my garments as I couldn’t afford to buy an extensive wardrobe.”

She added: “Young girls started to admire my handmade garments and asked if I could start making outfits for them as well, and Natalia Jefferys was born! I now want to help other designers on their journey. #DestinyDesigned aims to empower fellow South African designers by showcasing their fashion in a virtual space while using the Miss Universe South Africa platform.”

https://www.instagram.com/p/CLrjGUGh6uz/?utm_source=ig_embed

Entries for #DestinyDesigned are now open and close on February 22. Send an email to natasha@misssa.co.za for more information

Miss Universe Sa Pays It, Forward

Joubert’s Miss Universe social cause initiative, #DestinyDesigned, aims to showcase these talented South African designers on a global platform and draw attention to South Africa’s talent in the fashion industry. It also aims to help designers that have been affected by the global pandemic.

How Does #destinydesigned Work?

  • The initiative invites South African designers to submit their design labels and explain how their business has been affected by COVID-19. The 10 selected entrants will then be asked to make two garments each.
  • The garments will then be modeled by former Miss South Africa titleholders and finalists, as well as special guest models, in a virtual fundraiser fashion show that is scheduled to take place on Saturday, April 10.
  • The spectacular online runway show will also feature Natalia Jefferys‘ garments from Joubert’s couture store.

Global Audience

The online show will be available to audiences around the globe who will be able to tune into the show. Viewers will pay a minimal subscription fee on misssa.live to watch the show, with all funds and proceeds from the show going to the 10 designers featured.

The designers’ garments will be auctioned off online with the proceeds from each item sold going to the respective designers and viewers will have the opportunity to purchase a limited-edition custom-designed T-shirt in aid of the project.

Miss Universe delegates from other countries will also be encouraged to participate.

Joubert told IOL that she is passionate about entrepreneurship and she started her own company in 2016 to become self-sufficient. She said she began making her own garments while she was modeling as she couldn’t afford to buy an extensive wardrobe.

 “Young girls started to admire my handmade garments and asked if I could start making outfits for them as well, and Natalia Jefferys was born!” she said.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CLZDbJhHNCf/?utm_source=ig_embed

Virtual Fashion Space

Joubert now wants to help other designers on their journey by empowering fellow South African designers through showcasing their fashion in a virtual space while using the Miss Universe South Africa platform.

Stephanie Weil, CEO of the Miss South Africa Organisation, is delighted that the organisation can showcase South Africa’s rich design talent on a worldwide platform while also helping South African design talent on their own entrepreneurial journey.

“It is imperative now, more than ever, for us to support local fashion designers.”

Stephanie Weil, CEO of the Miss South Africa Organisation

The Miss Universe pageant is scheduled to take place in the second half of 2021, but no dates have been confirmed due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Content courtesy of  The South African, IOL & Nairobi fashion hub

 

Miss South African Zozibini Tunzi Crowned Miss Universe 2019

Posted on by Ann Mumbi

Miss Universe 2019, the 68th Miss Universe pageant, was held on December 8, 2019 at Tyler Perry Studios in Atlanta, Georgia, the United States. Catriona Gray of the Philippines crowned her successor Zozibini Tunzi of South Africa by the end of the event. This is South Africa’s third win after their recent victory in 2017. This edition also saw the crowning of the first black woman winner since Leila Lopes was crowned in 2011.

Contestants from 90 countries and territories participated in this year’s competition. The pageant was hosted by Steve Harvey in his fifth consecutive year, with Olivia Culpo and Vanessa Lachey as backstage corespondents, and with a performance by Ally Brooke. The new Mouawad Power of Unity crown made its debut. Swe Zin Htet of Myanmar became the first openly lesbian contestant to compete for the Miss Universe title.

Zozibini Tunzi was crowned Miss Universe Sunday night after excelling through rounds of swimsuit and evening gown struts, questions on social issues and one final chance to explain why she was the right choice.

“I grew up in a world where a woman who looks like me  with my kind of skin and my kind of hair was never considered to be beautiful,” she said in her last response. “I think it is time that that stops today. I want children to look at me and see my face and I want them to see their faces reflected in mine.”

The two runners-up for the crown were Miss Mexico and Miss Puerto Rico.

“If you do not use your beauty for your life’s mission, it’s just an empty ornament,” Sofía Aragón, representing Mexico, said earlier in the competition.

Madison Anderson represented Puerto Rico.

“Being on the Miss Universe stage is not just a dream” Anderson said. “I believe that I found my mission. It’s a representation of dedication, resilience and perseverance. I do believe my mission is to show the world that magic happens when we refuse to give up because the universe always listens to a stubborn heart.”

And if you’re wondering, yes, there was another mix-up and Steve Harvey was involved in it. But it was nothing like the 2015 disaster when he called out the wrong winner.

Harvey hosted the pageant for the fifth time sporting a bedazzled green and gold suit jacket.

He was commenting on a costume from earlier in week and said Miss Philippines won the National Costume Contest. He was right, but the woman who came out on stage said she was Miss Malaysia.

“Y’all got to quit doing this to me,” he said.

The massive competition was hosted at Tyler Perry Studios in Atlanta.

It has already made history with Miss Myanmar, Swe Zin Htet, who says she’s the first openly gay contestant.

Last year’s winner, Catriona Gray from the Philippines spoke during Sunday’s pageant, saying the past year has been “unforgettable, life-changing and purposeful.”

“We’re getting this amazing platform to voice the things we’re passionate about, the things we care about,” she said in a video. “I always had a voice, but Miss Universe allowed me to amplify it.”

Content courtesy of CNN

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