Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, November 17) — For the first time, transwomen, mothers, and a plus-size model got to flaunt their beauty at the 72nd edition of the global pageant as its preliminary rounds kick off in El Salvador on Thursday.
As one of the most prestigious beauty competitions, the Miss Universe pageant has been evolving by finding ways to answer calls for diversity, inclusivity and representation of all women. While the first transgender candidate made history competing in the 2018 Miss Universe, this year’s edition is the first to host more than one transwoman representative.This year also breaks ground as the first to accommodate two mothers after the organization revised its rules allowing only single women. The pageant also hosts its lone plus-size model and welcomes a new country into the mix of representatives.
Here’s what to know about the candidates and their initial pageant performance.
Nepal – Jane Dipika Garrett
Nepal’s Jane Dipika Garrett trended on social media early during the preliminary competition as she boldly displayed her plus-size curves in the swimsuit and evening gown events.
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