Miss Universe Africa and Oceania Côte d’Ivoire’s Olivia Yace ends all affiliation with Miss Universe committee, renounces her title

Miss Universe Africa Côte d’Ivoire’s Olivia Yace renounces her title (Picture Credit: Instagram) /@olivia.yace)

Just a few days back, Brigitta Schaback had stepped down from her title of Miss Universe Estonia. And now Côte d’Ivoire’s Olivia Yace has announced that she has renounced her title of Miss Universe Africa and Oceania. Yace shared on Instagram that she was stepping down to remain true to her values and to inspire young women, especially across African and Afro-descendant communities.

“As the representative of Côte d'Ivoire at the Miss Universe 2025 competition in Bangkok, I witnessed firsthand that I was capable of accomplishing great things despite adversity,” she wrote. “But to continue on this path, I must remain true to my values: respect, dignity, excellence, and equal opportunity," she shared in the post.

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Yace was the fourth runner-up during the Miss Universe 2025 contest that was held in Thailand. Yace decided to end affiliation with the Miss Universe committee citing differences over value system with the Miss Universe management.

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With the title, she also relinquished all her responsibilities. However, Yace wrote in her statement that she will continue to be a role model for young girls and forever encourage them to “walk confidently into rooms where they believe they do not belong” and help them embrace their identity without hesitation. “Stepping away from this diminished role of Miss Universe Africa and Oceania will allow me to dedicate myself fully to defending the values I hold dear,” she added.

The Miss Côte d’Ivoire Committee also confirmed Yace's resignation in a Facebook announcement. It was also stated that Yacé will formally return her sash and that her withdrawal will be effective immediately.

One of Yace's concluding remarks was, “I am deeply grateful for the support I have received,” she wrote. “Let us continue to defend our values and strive for greatness together.”

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