The reigning winners of Miss USA, Noelia Voigt, and Miss Teen USA, UmaSofia Srivastava, resigned from their titles inside days of one another this week in a shock to the Miss Universe Organisation.
The resignations depart the longstanding pageant group with out its prime two titleholders for the primary time in 72 years, shining a highlight on its practices.
The resignations have drawn requires extra transparency into Miss USA and its mum or dad organisation, each of which have confronted controversy and scrutiny prior to now.
Voigt, topped in September 2023, was the primary Venezuelan American to win her title.
The title was a “childhood dream” and stepping down was a “very tough decision,” the former Miss Utah and University of Alabama student said in an Instagram post on Monday.
“My hope is that I continue to inspire others to remain steadfast, prioritise your mental health, advocate for yourself and others by using your voice,” the 24-year-old wrote.
Alongside the assertion, Voigt added a caption that learn, “I realise this may come as a large shock to many.
Never compromise your physical and mental well-being.” She then thanked followers for his or her “unwavering support.”
In its own statement, the Miss USA Organisation thanked Voigt for her service and wished her “the best in this next chapter.”
“We respect and support Noelia’s decision to step down from her duties,” the statement read.
“The well-being of our titleholders is a top priority, and we understand her need to prioritise herself at this time.
“We are currently reviewing plans for the transition of responsibilities to a successor, and we will soon announce the crowning of the new Miss USA.”
Srivastava, who was also crowned last September, announced her resignation in her own post on Instagram on Wednesday.
“I find that my personal values no longer fully align with the direction of the organization,” the former Miss New Jersey Teen USA wrote.
The 17-year-old thanked her family and fans, said she was glad to represent her state as a first-generation Mexican Indian American and noted she was eager to apply to colleges and work on her multi-lingual children’s book.
A caption accompanying the statement said “this was certainly not how I saw my reign coming to a close” but called the experience a privilege.
A Miss Teen USA spokesperson could not be reached for comment on Srivastava’s announcement.
The Miss Universe Organisation, which runs the Miss USA and Miss Teen USA pageants, couldn’t be reached for remark.
Source: www.9news.com.au
