The 72nd edition of the Miss Universe pageant is set to take place on November 18, 2023, in El Salvador, a Central American country known for its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and hospitable people. The event will be streamed on The Roku Channel and broadcasted by Telemundo and other local channels around the world.

A total of 85 beauties from around the globe will compete for the coveted crown and the job of Miss Universe, succeeding the reigning titleholder R’Bonney Gabriel of the United States of America. The contestants will be judged on their personal statements, in-depth interviews, evening gown, and swimwear presentations.

This year’s competition will mark some historic milestones and notable achievements for the Miss Universe Organization and the participating countries. For instance, this will be the first time that Pakistan will join the pageant, represented by Erica Robin, a model and social activist who advocates for women’s empowerment and education.

Moreover, this will also be the first time that both the Netherlands and Portugal will be represented by transgender women, following the footsteps of Spain’s Angela Ponce who competed in 2018. Rikkie Valerie Kollé of the Netherlands is a fashion designer and entrepreneur who aims to inspire others to embrace their true selves, while Maria Inês of Portugal is a law student and human rights activist who fights for equality and justice.

Another remarkable achievement is that the current Miss Universe Colombia and Guatemala will be the first married women and mothers to compete in the pageant since the Miss Universe Organization changed its rules to become more inclusive. Camila Avella of Colombia is a journalist and entrepreneur who runs a digital platform that promotes sustainable tourism, while Michelle Cohn of Guatemala is a psychologist and entrepreneur who founded a non-profit organization that provides mental health services to low-income communities.

The Miss Universe 2023 pageant will also witness the returns of 10 countries that have been absent from the competition for various reasons. These are Denmark, Egypt, Guyana, Hungary, Ireland, Kazakhstan, Latvia, Mongolia, Norway, and Zimbabwe.

With such a diverse and accomplished group of contestants, the Miss Universe 2023 pageant promises to be an exciting and memorable event that will showcase the beauty, intelligence, and charisma of women from different backgrounds and cultures. Who will be the next queen of the universe? Stay tuned to find out!