Nicaragua’s bet for Miss Universe 2023, Sheynnis Palacios, made history by becoming the first Nicaraguan woman ever to win the title during the international pageant’s coronation night held on Sunday, November 19, in El Salvador.
Palacios won against Thailand’s representative, Anntonia Porsild, who finished as the first runner-up, while Moraya Wilson from Australia was announced as the second runner-up.
During the final question and answer segment, Miss Nicaragua, Miss Australia, and Miss Thailand, were asked: “If you could live one year in another woman’s shoes, who would you choose and why?
Palacios’ delivered, “I would choose Mary Wollstonecraft because she opened the gap and gave an opportunity to many women. And what I would do, would want that gap to open up so that women could work in any area that they choose to work in because there are no limitations for women.”
“That was 1750, now in 2023, we’re making history,” she added.
On the other hand, the Philippines’ Michelle Marquez Dee ended her Miss Universe journey in the Top 10 after failing to make it to the Top 5.
However, Michelle might not be going home with a crown yet the 28-year-old actress bagged two awards from the international pageant.
She was named as one of the Gold Winners for the pageant’s “Voice for Change” category along with candidates from Angola and Puerto Rico. Each candidate will receive a US$12,000 cash prize.
Michelle’s entry focuses in advocating to promote autism acceptance, inclusivity, and empowerment.
Michelle was also announced to win the Spirit Cruise Award.