Miss Universe Philippines: 'Chelsea Manalo'
Filipino American 'Chelsea Manalo' became the first Black woman to be crowned Miss Universe Philippines on Wednesday. Chelsea Manalo is a Filipino model and beauty pageant titleholder who was crowned Miss Universe Philippines 2024. She will represent the Philippines at the Miss Universe 2024 pageant.
Born to a Filipino mother and an African American father, it is reported that the 24-year-old’s victory was celebrated on social media for breaking traditional beauty norms in the Philippines, which have often favored Eurocentric features and lighter skin tones.
Manalo’s journey in the pageant world began at the age of 14 when she started modeling. Despite facing bullying for her skin color and hair type, she said she found strength and confidence through the support of her friends and family.
Manalo, representing the province of Bulacan, stood out among 52 contestants in the competition. Her win has sparked conversations about expanding beauty standards in the Philippines, a country where lighter-skinned individuals have traditionally dominated media and entertainment and where skin-lightening products are prevalent.
Her victory challenges traditional beauty standards in the country. She emphasized using her beauty and confidence to empower others, highlighting the challenges she faced as a woman.
Manalo previously competed in Miss World Philippines 2017, where she placed in the top 15.
An advocate for indigenous people, Manalo campaigns for youth education, accessibility, and empowerment.
Miss Universe 2024 will be the 73rd Miss Universe pageant. It will be held in Mexico for the first time since the country last hosted in 2007. Sheynnis Palacios (Miss Universe 2023) of Nicaragua will crown her successor at the end of the event.
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