On March 24, 2016, Jorge Esteban and Manuela Osk were awarded the Miss Universe Iceland franchise as final contracts were signed in New York City, NY, USA. This means that the Miss Universe Iceland 2018 pageant is bringing new energy, a different format and high expectations.

After a 7 year hiatus, Iceland will finally be getting a well deserved comeback. The contestants have already been announced, and it’s time that the pageant’s fans get to know the better and choose their favourites as the pageant proceeds further.

The first contestant to be introduced to the pageant’s fans is Miss Keflavik 2018 Gunnhildur Stella Líndal Haraldsdóttir.

Gunnhildur is 19 years old and lives in Keflavík. She is currently a student in Fjölbrautaskóla Suðurnesja and, in the future, is planning on going to the Police Academy and one day serve her community as a police officer. In her free time, she loves spending time with her family and friends. Her interests include horseback riding, traveling around the world and living a healthy lifestyle.

The pageant started off on a bit of a bad foot this year, with controversies following it since the start. Miss Universe Iceland had announced that it is open for registration and looking for a representative, but, the news was taken in a slightly offensive manner when the requirements to qualify as a contender were revealed.

(Photo Credits:Gunnhildur Stella Instagram Official)

One of the requirements qualifications stated that: ‘The applicant must be physically certified as a female by an Icelandic doctor. However, things sorted out after the organizers took responsible steps to clarify the confusion.

The grand coronation will take place at the City Park hotel, where Miss Universe Iceland 2017 Arna Ýr Jónsdóttir will crown a successor, who will then go on to represent Iceland at Miss Universe 2018 competition, where Miss Universe 2017 Demi-Leigh Nel-Peters will crown the Miss Universe 2018.