Sheyniss Palacois crowned Miss Universe 2023

Sheyniss Palacois from Nicaragua was crowned 72nd Miss Universe last night in front of 15.000 spectators in San Salvador.

Sheyniss, a 23-year-old communications graduate, sees herself as a future producer. She has launched the ‘Understanding Your Mind’ project to promote mental health.

Miss Croatia, Andrea Erjavec, failed to reach the semi-finals of the world’s most prestigious beauty pageant

The top 20 finalists on the night were Nicaragua, Spain, Puerto Rico, Namibia, Venezuela, India, Thailand, Chile, Jamaica, the United States, Nepal, Peru, Cameroon, Colombia, Pakistan, Australia, the Philippines, Portugal, South Africa and El Salvador.

It is the first time that a tall woman (Nepal) and a married woman with children (Colombia) have reached the semi-finals, reflecting the new rules of the competition that eliminate age limits starting from 2023.

«The winners who reach the Miss Universe final often speak multiple languages, hold double degrees, and are highly respected in their countries. They become brands that promote and initiate social changes on their platforms, followed by hundreds of thousands, even millions of people on social media. Most of these women engage in public roles, working in radio or television and serve as motivational speakers», explains Ivana Delač, Public Relations Director at Miss Universe Croatia.

To advance to the next round, the top 20 had to demonstrate confidence and fitness in the swimming costume category. The 10 finalists were Puerto Rico, Thailand, Peru, Colombia, Nicaragua, the Philippines, El Salvador, Venezuela, Australia and Spain.

After the evening gown competition, the Top 5 successful contestants from Australia, Puerto Rico, Nicaragua, Thailand, and Colombia answered the jury’s questions on important topics and global issues. The 72nd Miss Universe was announced, with Nicaragua crowned as the winner, Thailand as the first runner-up, and Australia as the second runner-up.

The competition, watched by millions worldwide, was hosted by Miss Universe 2012 Olivia Culpo, TV personality Jeannie Mai Jenkins, Maria Menounos, former Miss Universe Catriona Gray, and Zuri Hall as backstage correspondents. Renowned musician John Legend performed during the event.