From Student to Queen: Brenda Azaria‘s Unexpected Path to Miss Universe Puerto Rico
Brenda Azaria’s journey to becoming Miss Universe Puerto Rico 2016 was anything but conventional. She didn’t anticipate a pageant career, initially attending an agency simply to learn modeling.It was the agency owner who suggested she audition for Miss Universe Puerto Rico, launching her into a whirlwind experience. However, her path to the crown took an even more unexpected turn when the original winner was dismissed, and Azaria unexpectedly assumed the title.
The transition was rapid. “The readiness time was somewhat good… Well, everything was a little rushed,” Azaria confessed, describing a demanding schedule that consumed her days from 4:00 AM training sessions to late-night studies and photo shoots. She emphasized the complete preparation required of a “miss,” needing to learn about a wide range of topics. Despite the intensity, she expressed gratitude for the knowledge gained during this period.
Azaria fondly remembers the enthusiastic reception she received in the Philippines,the host country for the 2017 Miss Universe competition.She was especially touched by the Filipinos’ adoration for former Miss Universe Dayanara Torres, noting that simply arriving in the country elicited shouts of “Puerto Rico!” from the crowds. “It is such an exciting and satisfying feeling to arrive in a country where you say ‘no one is going to know me here’, and they already know you and support you without knowing where you come from,” she shared.
While aiming for a sixth victory for Puerto Rico, Azaria maintained a focus on personal growth. ”Only one takes the crown,” she acknowledged, choosing to prioritize the experience and connections made during the competition.
Looking back, Azaria feels proud of her performance at Miss Universe, though she wonders if a few more years of maturity might have altered the outcome. She competed at the age of 22, and believes more experience could have been beneficial. Though, she firmly stated she has no regrets about competing at that age.
Azaria credits the experience with significant personal growth. “From not knowing anything about the world of modeling, to being the first finalist in the most crucial pageant in Puerto Rico… filled me with a lot of pride and I showed myself that no matter the challenge I set for myself, if I have Father God in front of me, I will achieve it.” She now continues her studies in architecture, believing the lessons learned as Miss Universe Puerto Rico 2016 have helped her become “the best version that Brenda Azaria could be.”