A plus-size model participated in the Miss Universe competition for the first time (12 photos + 1 video)
Shakespeare wrote: "Beauty is a vain and doubtful good." However, this year's Miss Universe contestants were all undeniably gorgeous. The 72nd beauty contest was marked by several historical events. The requirements were softened, so for the first time, women who already have children, as well as a plus-size model, became contestants. It was she who won the hearts of the audience. 
22-year-old Jane Deepika Garrett became the first ever curvy Miss Universe contestant 
Jane won the Miss Nepal title earlier this year and represented her country at the Miss Universe pageant in El Salvador on November 18. 
Jane said: "Being a curvy woman who doesn't fit beauty standards, I'm here to represent all women."
The Nepalese model's appearance on stage in El Salvador drew praise on social networks:
"Nepalese model Jane Deepika Garrett is so beautiful and defies stereotypes at the Miss Universe pageant."
“I love that the audience supports her.”
“Finally, plus-size women are represented at the Miss Universe pageant.”
"Jane Deepika Garrett, you have broken barriers. Many women see themselves in you."
The girl promotes a positive attitude towards the body. The beauty queen was inspired to motivate others by her own battle with polycystic ovary syndrome, which led to depression.
Jane told Hola Magazine: "A few years ago I was an insecure person with very low self-esteem. Now I love myself and that's a success for me."
Pakistan was represented for the first time at the famous competition
24-year-old Erica Robin entered the competition in the swimsuit category wearing a soft pink burkini that covered most of her body.
However, the contestant's modesty did not protect her from conservative critics: some Pakistani politicians called her participation "disgraceful" and Prime Minister Anwar-ul-Haq Kakar ordered an investigation.
Before the pageant, the beauty queen said she hoped to "change the perception of Pakistan as a backward country."
It is noteworthy that Erica is among the 1% of Christians in Pakistan.
"Despite criticism, I am ready to take on any challenge while maintaining the values of a young, modern Pakistani woman. I represent our rich culture and heritage, showing the world that Pakistan can celebrate the success of women."
Afinea Perez is the first black woman to win the Miss Spain title.
The girl entered the top ten and received the title "Miss Congeniality". Athena said in her introductory video that she was raised by an immigrant mother and hopes her story will "inspire people."
Miss Colombia Camila Avella becomes the first married contestant with a child
And the representative of Guatemala, Michelle Cohn, is the first married mother of two children
Also participating for the first time were two transgender people: 28-year-old Marina Machete from Portugal
Before the competition began, the 28-year-old flight attendant wrote on social media that she was proud to be Portugal's first transwoman to compete for the Miss Universe title.
And Ricky Valerie Colle from the Netherlands
As a result, Miss Nicaragua, 23-year-old Shannice Palacios, won the Miss Universe 2023 crown.
During the final round, the three beauties were asked the question: “If you could live in another woman’s shoes for one year, who would you choose and why?” Shanniece chose women's rights defender Mary Wollstonecraft.
