Nicaragua is victorious as Miss Universe 2023, in a momentous occasion replete with glitz and happy tears.
Following a nearly three-hour coronation night, Sheynnis Palacios emerged victorious as the inaugural Miss Universe for Nicaragua. The contest took place on Sunday in El Salvador. First runner-up was Anntonia Porsild of Thailand, while second runner-up was Moraya Wilson of Australia.
The question “If you could live one year in another woman’s shoes, who would you choose and why?” was the last one posed to Miss Universe 2023 contestants.
Miss Nicaragua brought up the name of Mary Wollstonecraft, the pioneer of feminism and a champion of women’s rights.
“I would choose Malala Yousafzai because I am aware of the struggles she had to overcome to get to where she is today,” Anntonia replied.
Malala had to fight for women’s education and for the ability of all women to be strong, agents of change, and role models. She would be my choice, if I could select anyone,” the 27-year-old continued.
In homage to her mother, Miss Australia declared that she would like to take over her show.
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, meantime, congratulated and extended gratitude to Anntonia Porsild, the 2023 Miss Universe Thailand, for placing first runner-up in today’s Miss Universe 2023 final round in Sal Salvador, El Salvador.
According to government spokeswoman Chai Wacharonke, Anntonia’s traditional costume from the beauty contest was one among the ways the prime minister honored Anntonia for showcasing Thailand’s soft power.
Chai stated that while she did not win the title of Miss Universe, the Thai people are proud of her and the recognition it brings to their nation.
Anntonia is the first contestant from Thailand to place in the top two of the Miss Universe competition in thirty-five years. However, two previous Miss Universe candidates from Thailand—Porntip Nakhirunkanok in 1988 and Apasra Hongsakula in 1965—have taken home the coveted title.
