Marianela Ancheta's historic return as Miss Universe Cuba celebrates Cuban resilience and dreams
The Miss Universe competition is set to welcome Marianela Ancheta, a Cuban businesswoman and model, marking a historic return for Cuba after 57 years of absence. Chosen on September 26 at the Milander Center in Hialeah, Florida, Ancheta’s crowning ceremony was a momentous event that brought together a vibrant mix of politicians, artists, and families of the contestants. She took to the stage with a resounding message for Cuban women everywhere: never give up on their dreams.
Ancheta, who arrived in the United States by crossing the border in Mexico alongside her mother, represents the resilience and determination of countless Cubans. She emphasized that her participation in Miss Universe is about more than personal victory; it is a historic achievement for all Cuban women. As the evening unfolded, Ancheta's words of encouragement resonated with the audience, symbolizing a breakthrough for a nation that has been missing from the global pageant for more than five decades.
The road to Miss Universe Cuba
The journey to becoming Miss Universe Cuba is no small feat. Over the past three months, contestants like Ancheta dedicated themselves to a rigorous preparation program under the guidance of renowned Venezuelan designer Julio César Cruz, who is well-regarded in the beauty industry. Known as Prince Julio César, Cruz prepared the candidates for every facet of the competition, from oratory to wardrobe and physical training.
The pageant, hosted by TV personalities Aylín Mujica and William Valdés, unfolded in a sequence of exciting rounds that showcased the talents of each contestant. The audience enjoyed musical performances by Aymée Nuviola and Cuban singer Lenier, who added a distinctively Cuban flair to the event. Out of 24 participants representing various regions of the island, only six finalists, including Ancheta, remained. These talented women impressed judges and audience members alike, embodying the grace, determination, and charisma that Miss Universe Cuba demands.
One of the night's highlights was a tribute to Osmel Sousa, the former Miss Venezuela director known as the "Beauty Czar," who continues to work as an advisor for the Miss Universe pageant. Sousa’s inspiring words reminded attendees of Cuba’s remarkable history in the pageant. For him and for many, the return of a Cuban contestant carries not only the spirit of competition but also the deep pride of the Cuban people.
Empowering Cuban women on a global stage
The selection of Marianela Ancheta to represent Cuba is a significant milestone, with judges and pageant figures alike emphasizing the importance of Cuban representation on a global platform. Enrique Santos, a Miami radio personality and one of the judges, stated that Cuban women deserve a dignified platform after decades of misrepresentation and challenges. Santos believes that Miss Universe Cuba is a stage to showcase the strength and perseverance of Cuban women, honoring their dreams and capabilities.
With the Miss Universe competition just weeks away, Prince Julio César expressed his unwavering confidence in Ancheta’s ability to rise to the challenge. Having witnessed her commitment and progress, he noted that Ancheta is not just a beauty pageant contestant; she is a symbol of a nation’s aspirations and dreams. His team is now intensifying preparations for her final debut in Mexico, including perfecting her wardrobe and oratory skills, as well as her physical presentation to ensure that Cuba is represented as it deserves after so many years.
Ancheta’s triumph in the Miss Universe Cuba pageant is a victory that belongs not only to her but to Cuban women everywhere. In a post-competition interview, she acknowledged the mixed emotions she felt, knowing that many Cuban women cannot experience this joy directly. Her win is a beacon of hope for Cuban women, signifying that their dreams can transcend borders and limitations.
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Source: Miami Herald
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