From the Philippines to Thailand, Miss Universe 2023 features a number of women making impressive returns, bringing a new dimension of excitement to the competition
Some may see it as a comeback, others as an unwavering chase for a dream, but Miss Universe 2023 certainly feels like a reunion for seasoned pageant pros. With a history of competing in major international pageants, these women add an extra layer of challenge to this year’s competition. As we eagerly await the coronation night, let’s put the spotlight on these promising representatives set to prove that this time, the coveted title belongs to their nations.
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Karla Guilfú Acevedo, Puerto Rico
Immediately establishing herself as a standout contender in this Miss Universe edition, Karla Guilfú Acevedo from Puerto Rico is definitely a name on everyone’s radar. Her impressive track record includes being the first runner-up at Miss Supranational 2021, along with earning the award of Miss Elegance during the pre-finals.
Michelle Dee, Philippines
Joining the ranks of pageant veterans at the 72nd Miss Universe is none other than our own Michelle Dee. Her journey began at Miss World Philippines 2019, where she achieved a commendable Top 12 placement. Notably, she also clinched a spot in the Top 40 that time by triumphing in the Head-to-Head Fast Track Challenge against Miss World Turkey 2019.
Anntonia Porsild, Thailand
Making history in Thailand’s pageant scene, Anntonia Porsild became the first Miss Supranational from her country when she won in 2019. Taking it a step further, she shattered norms by being the first beauty queen to move from holding the Miss Supranational title to now vying for the Miss Universe crown. Without a doubt, her steadfast strength signifies her preparedness to thrive on larger, more demanding stages.
Diana Silva, Venezuela
Venezuela remains a force to be reckoned with in Miss Universe, and Diana Silva is amplifying that statement this year. Already a familiar face on the international stage, Diana achieved a Top 8 finish at the 8th edition of Miss Earth in 2018, held at the Mall of Asia Arena. Her journey also includes proudly representing Venezuela at the 2017 Miss City Tourism World, where she clinched the title.
Melissa Flores, Mexico
Representing Mexico, Melissa Flores is a beauty who’s getting another shot, and rightly so. Having previously represented her country at Miss Earth 2018, where she competed alongside Celeste Cortesi and Diana Silva, she made her mark by getting the title of Miss Earth Fire—an accolade that positions her as a strong candidate to watch out for this year.
Sheynnis Palacios, Nicaragua
Another familiar face in pageantry, Sheynnis Palacios, stages a promising comeback for Nicaragua. Starting her journey in 2016 with the title of Miss Teen Nicaragua, the 23-year-old beauty queen competed at Miss Teen Universe 2017, securing a well-deserved position in the Top 10. Three years later, she earned the right to represent Nicaragua at Miss World 2020, achieving a Top 40 placement. Despite a setback in her pageant plans to represent her country at Reinado Internacional del Café 2022 due to testing positive for COVID-19, the lingering question persists: Could this be the year she clinches an international crown for her country?
Madison Kvaltin, Canada
This year, Canada has confidently selected Madison Kvaltin as its representative for Miss Universe. Prior to this prestigious pageant, she showcased her country’s grace at Miss International 2022, earning an impressive Top 8 standing. Madison is not only a beauty queen, but also an accomplished entrepreneur, holding a degree in sociology and business from Queen’s University.
Camila Escribens, Peru
Rounding off the lineup, we have Camila Escribens from Peru. This seasoned beauty queen secured the opportunity to represent her country at Miss Universe on her third attempt. Her journey also includes a Top 10 finish at Miss Grand 2019 and an intended participation in Miss Supranational 2020, although health reasons led to her replacement. With a tenacious spirit that persists, Camila is undeniably one of the women whose journey promises excitement and anticipation.
