The 72nd edition of Miss Universe was definitely one for the history; with new rules being implemented and mothers and married women participating, Miss Universe 2023 was the edition of progress and inclusion. The night ended with Nicaragua’s Sheynnis Palacios making history and winning the first ever Miss Universe crown for her country.
One face that changed how inclusivity could be perceived throughout the world was Jane Garrett, the representative of Nepal at Miss Universe 2023 as she became the first ever plus size beauty queen to compete at an esteemed stage like Miss Universe.
For the longest time, beauty queens were only seen in the light of being tall and skinny without an inch out of the ‘perfect’ shape according to standards set in the industry. Fortunately, Jane broke those stereotypes as inclusivity was the core of this year’s Miss Universe.
When Jane entered the stage in her swimsuit, strutting gloriously in her silver metallic swimwear and a plunging neckline, only confidence oozed out of her as she embraced body positivity at Miss Universe stage.
“I'm so proud to be representing real size beauty around the world and breaking the stereotypes of beauty pageants. So proud of the new Miss Universe and will forever cherish this season of my life that was life changing”, she quoted.
Jane’s participation and placement in the Top 20 is a testament of her courage, hardwork and dedication as she showed that women do no need to be seen only a certain way and broke barriers for girls all around the world to follow in her footsteps or whatever they dream of! Congratulations Nepal!