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Miss Universe 2023 contestants who were born in countries other than the ones they represent© Getty Images

Miss Universe 2023 contestants who were born in countries other than the ones they represent

The beauty pageant will be held on November 18, 2023, and for the first time, it will take place in El Salvador


Shirley Gomez
Senior Writer
OCTOBER 11, 2023 2:53 PM EDT

The Miss Universe competition is around the corner, and soon will celebrate the diversity and the beauty of different cultures. The 2023 edition of Miss Universe comes with an intriguing twist in the form of contestants born in countries other than the ones they represent.

The beauty pageant will be held on November 18, 2023, and for the first time, it will take place in El Salvador. In addition to this, Telemundo and the Miss Universe Organization announced a multi-year agreement confirming the network as the official Spanish-language broadcaster of the competition in the United States.

Let’s look closely at some of these exceptional women vying for the coveted Miss Universe title.

Mariana Downing© GettyImages

Mariana Downing: Miss Dominican Republic 2023

Representing the province of Sánchez Ramírez, Mariana Downing has taken the crown as Miss Dominican Republic Universe 2023. This stunning 27-year-old beauty queen boasts a unique heritage, being half-Dominican and half-British. However, what’s even more intriguing is that Mariana was born in the United States.

Mariana’s story exemplifies our globalized world, where individuals from diverse backgrounds come together to celebrate the rich tapestry of human experience. Her passion for Dominican roots and dedication to the pageant cause make her a shining star in the competition.

Celeste Viel© @celeviel

Celeste Viel: Miss Chile 2023

Celeste Viel is another contestant with a unique international background. Born in the United States, she now proudly represents Chile in the Miss Universe 2023 pageant. Celeste’s journey demonstrates the power of personal identity and the ability to transcend borders to pursue one’s dreams.

Celeste’s story reminds us that Miss Universe is more than just a beauty contest; it’s a platform for women worldwide to showcase their talents and promote causes close to their hearts.

Jane Dipika Garrett: Miss Universe Nepal 2023© Jane Dipika Garrett

Jane Dipika Garrett: Miss Universe Nepal 2023

Nepal’s Miss Universe 2023 representative, Jane Dipika Garrett, brings another layer of diversity to the competition. This 22-year-old beauty was born in the United States, but her heart belongs to Nepal. Jane is a striking contestant and the first plus-size model to win the competition in her country, breaking stereotypes and making an impact as a role model for body positivity.

Jane’s participation in Miss Universe Nepal 2023 is a powerful statement that beauty comes in all shapes and sizes, and it’s about time that diverse body types are celebrated on a global stage. She stands as a symbol of empowerment and self-acceptance, inspiring countless individuals to embrace their true selves.

Anntonia Porsild: Miss Universe Thailand 2023© Anntonia Porsild

Anntonia Porsild: Miss Universe Thailand 2023

Anntonia Porsild represents Thailand in the 2023 Miss Universe competition, even though her roots have a more international flavor. This Danish Thai model and beauty pageant titleholder was born in India. Her multicultural background showcases the beauty of cross-cultural connections and the unity pageants like Miss Universe strive to promote.

Anntonia’s story serves as a reminder that beauty transcends boundaries and that the competition welcomes contestants from various backgrounds, emphasizing the importance of unity and diversity.

Diana Hinestrosa: Miss Universe Equatorial Guinea 2023© Diana Hinestrosa

Diana Hinestrosa: Miss Universe Equatorial Guinea 2023

Diana Hinestrosa is all set to represent Equatorial Guinea in the Miss Universe 2023 competition. Born in the United States, Diana’s journey to represent a country she holds close to her heart highlights the beauty of international connections and the significance of embracing one’s heritage.