Marina Machete created history in Portugal by not only being the first ever transwoman to compete at Miss Universe Portugal 2023 but also becoming the first ever transwoman to win the crown. She was crowned Miss Universe Portugal 2023 at the finale of the national pageant held on 5th October 2023 at Borba Events Pavilion in Borba, Portugal.
Machete represented Palmela at the national competition and bested 16 other candidates to win the crown. A flight attendant by profession, Machete is fluent in Portuguese and English. The 28-year-old will now prepare to represent her country at Miss Universe 2023.
The newly crowned Miss Universe Portugal 2023 Marina Machete’s court included –
1st Runner-up – Diana Lopes of Guimarães
2nd Runner-up – Elisabete Abreu of Câmara de Lobos
Machete is now the second transwoman contestant competing at Miss Universe 2023. Ever since Machete was a teenager, she was involved in many social projects in Portugal. Machete will prove to be strong contender for the crown.
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.