Last weekend, Miss Texas USA contestants made history. Marissa TeijoAt 71, she is the oldest contestant to have taken part in the pageant, and although she did not win, she delivered an inspiring message to women around the world.
Teijo announced her participation in the pageant in late May, and in a post, she shared some goals for herself as she competes for the crown of Texas: “As a contestant in the Miss Texas USA pageant, I am excited to be a part of this amazing new experience. In doing so, I hope to inspire women to strive to be their best selves, both physically and mentally, and to believe that beauty exists no matter how old they are,” she wrote in the post’s caption.
The Miss Universe Organization recently updated its guidelines to take a more inclusive stance in casting, and has since removed the age restriction for contestants aged 18 and over, and is now allowing married, divorced and pregnant women to participate.
Last Saturday, Miss Texas USA was held, and Miss Dallas Ariana Ware With her crown, she will represent Texas in the upcoming Miss USA pageant.
Miss USA’s controversial resignation
Earlier this May, Miss USA Noelia Voito stepped down. She released a statement on social media, which drew attention from around the world. Following her statement, the Miss Universe organization responded. “We respect and support former Miss USA Noelia Voito’s decision to step down from her duties. The well-being of the titleholder is our top priority, and we understand that she needs to prioritize herself at this time. The organization is currently reviewing a plan to transition responsibilities to a successor, and an announcement regarding the crowning of a new Miss USA will be made in the coming days,” the statement read.
Soon after, Miss Teen USA Umasofia Srivastava He resigned from that position.
Voight represented Miss Utah and was crowned Miss USA 2023. She is the first Venezuelan-American to win the title.
