In a world where beauty pageants are often seen as superficial and outdated, some contestants are using their platforms to challenge the status quo and inspire social change. From speaking out against human rights violations to advocating for environmental causes, these beauty queens are becoming icons of hope and resistance for their communities and beyond.
Beatrice Luigi Gomez made history as the first openly lesbian winner of Miss Universe Philippines. She also used her voice to raise awareness about the plight of the LGBTQ+ community in the country, where same-sex marriage is still illegal and discrimination is rampant. Gomez, who is a nurse and a reservist in the Philippine Coast Guard, said she wants to use her crown to promote inclusivity and diversity. She also expressed her support for the SOGIE (Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity and Expression) Equality Bill, which aims to protect the rights of LGBTQ+ people from discrimination.
Miss Earth 2023: Gabriella Francesca
Gabriella Francesca, who represented the USA in the Miss Earth 2023 pageant, won the crown with her advocacy for climate action and environmental justice. She is a climate activist and a founder of a non-profit organization called Climate NOW, which educates and empowers young people to take action on the climate crisis. She also launched a campaign called #GreenYourRoutine, which encourages people to adopt eco-friendly habits and lifestyles. Francesca said she wants to use her title to amplify the voices of the marginalized communities who are most affected by the impacts of climate change.
Miss Grand International 2023: Lala Guedes
Lala Guedes, who represented Brazil in the Miss Grand International 2023 pageant, won the crown with her advocacy for peace and human rights. She is a lawyer and a human rights defender, who has worked with various organizations to fight against domestic violence, child abuse, and human trafficking. She also participated in a protest against the military coup in Myanmar, where the pageant was held, and showed solidarity with the people who are suffering from the violence and oppression of the junta. Guedes said she wants to use her influence to spread the message of peace and justice around the world.
These beauty queens are not only beautiful, but also brave and bold. They are using their platforms to make a difference and inspire others to do the same. They are proving that beauty pageants can be more than just a showcase of physical beauty, but also a platform for social change.