Photo Credit:Empire Phillipines
In a historic moment for the Philippines, Chelsea Manalo was crowned Miss Universe Philippines 2024, becoming the first Black Filipino woman to hold the title. Her victory is not just a personal triumph but a groundbreaking event that challenges long-held beauty standards in the country.
Born to a Filipino mother and African American father, the 24-year-old’s win has been hailed as a significant step towards diversifying the notion of beauty in the Philippines, a nation where Eurocentric features and lighter complexions have traditionally been favored. Manalo’s success is seen as a shattering of these outdated ideals, paving the way for a more inclusive definition of beauty.
Representing Bulacan, Manalo stood out among 52 other contestants with her poise, grace, and powerful message of self-belief. During the competition, she spoke candidly about her experiences with bullying and insecurities, attributing her confidence to the support of her friends and family who helped her realize her unique beauty.
Manalo’s advocacy extends beyond the pageant stage. She has been a vocal supporter of youth education and empowerment, particularly for indigenous people. Her platform is expected to bring attention to these causes as she prepares to represent the Philippines at the Miss Universe pageant in Mexico later this year.
The significance of Manalo’s win is amplified by the recent changes in the Miss Universe competition, which has removed the upper age limit for contestants, reflecting a shift towards inclusivity and recognition of the diverse experiences women bring to the table.
However, Manalo’s journey to the crown has not been without its challenges. In a media conference, she shared the financial hardships encountered during the pageant, highlighting the often-overlooked struggles behind the glamour of beauty contests.
As Manalo gears up for the global stage, she carries with her the hopes and aspirations of a nation eager to redefine beauty standards. Her presence at the Miss Universe 2024 pageant will undoubtedly inspire and encourage further conversations about inclusivity in beauty pageants and beyond.
Manalo’s story is a testament to the evolving landscape of beauty pageants, where the celebration of diversity and the breaking of barriers are becoming the new standards of beauty. Her win is a beacon of hope for many, proving that beauty is not a monolith but a spectrum that embraces all shades and stories.
With her historic win, Chelsea Manalo is not just a beauty queen; she is a symbol of change, an ambassador for diversity, and a role model for young women everywhere. As the world watches her journey unfold, there is no doubt that she will continue to inspire and challenge the status quo, one crown at a time
Ig @ mannu mwendwa.
