Nicaragua's Sheynnis Palacios crowned Miss Universe 2023

Sheynnis Palacios was crowned as the Miss Universe 2023. (Image: @MissUniverse/X)

Sheynnis Alondra Palacios Cornejo representing Nicaragua was crowned the Miss Universe 2023 by last year’s winner R’Bonney Gabriel at the 72nd Miss Universe pageant. The gala took place in El Salvador on November 19, according to Indian Standard Time (IST).

Thailand’s Anntonia Porsild was declared the runner-up with Moraya Wilson from Australia claiming the second runner-up position.

Palacios, 23, was overcome with emotions and broke down into tears after hearing her name being declared as the winner.

@mouawad # #MissUniverse2023 pic.twitter.com/cSHgnTKNL2

— Miss Universe (@MissUniverse) November 19, 2023

The new Miss Universe has a degree in communications. Her episodes of anxiety encouraged her to start a project called “Entiende tu mente” (Understand Your Mind.) It aims to emphasise the importance of mental health and help destigmatise it, according to reports.

84 women graced the Miss Universe stage from around the world. This year’s pageant was also all about inclusivity and progress. Two married mothers -- Michelle Cohn from Guatemala and Maria Camila Avella Montañez from Colombia – were the first to take part in the competition. Miss Nepal, Jane Dipika Garett made history as the first plus-sized model to have entered.

The inclusion of Miss Portugal, Marina Machete and Miss Netherlands, Rikkie Kolle, paved the way for transgender inclusion in the global pageant as well.

Shweta Sharda represented India and made it to the top 20 finalists at the coveted pageant. Pakistan's Erica Robin also debuted at the global competition.

The 72nd Miss Universe pageant was held at the José Adolfo Pineda Arena in El Salvador. The audience and viewers across the world also witnessed a performance by 12-time Grammy winner John Legend. The event was hosted by Maria Menounos alongside former Miss Universe Olivia Culpo and Jeannie Mai.

The Central American country hosted the pageant for the first time since 1975.