Paula Susanna Joukanen was crowned Miss Soumi 2023 (Miss Universe Finland 2023) at the finale of the national pageant held at Aino Areena in Järvenpää on Saturday, 9th September 2023. Paula will now prepare to represent Finland at Miss Universe 2023. 

The 22-year-old Paula Susanna Joukanen bested nine other finalists to win the national crown. Paula is a law student at the University of Helsinki and also works as a legal trainee at a construction consulting firm.

On being crowned Miss Suomi 2023, Paula took to her official social media as she wrote, “The main feeling right now is gratitude. Gratitude that the jury believed in me and saw potential in me. Gratitude that on the way to my dreams I have a strong support network around me - family, friends, miss sisters, the Miss Finland organization, partners and all of you who have cheered or congratulated me during this journey.”

“Last night I didn't sleep for more than a couple of funny hours, but that doesn't matter - this is where it starts; a journey lasting a year, or actually a lifetime. Thank You. I am your Miss Finland”, she added.

Miss Universe 2023, the 72nd edition of Miss Universe, will be held in El Salvador on 18th November 2023 where Miss Universe 2022 R'Bonney Gabriel of USA will crown her successor at the end of the event finale.