Second Miss Universe Contestant Resigns Amidst Ongoing Controversy
another contestant has resigned from her title following a tumultuous miss Universe pageant season. Yacé, Miss Universe Nicaragua, announced her resignation this week, joining Brigitta Schaback, who recently stepped down as Miss Universe Estonia.
Schaback publicly attributed her decision too a misalignment with the values and work ethic of National Director Natalie Korneitsik, stating, “My values and work ethics do not align with those of the National Director, Natalie Korneitsik,” and emphasizing her “commitment is to women’s empowerment and equality.” She intends to continue her advocacy work independently.
The resignations cap a pageant cycle marked by multiple incidents. This year’s competition saw a contestant injured after a fall onstage, judges stepping down due to concerns over exclusionary practices, and a viral video depicting Miss Universe for Asia and Oceania president Nawat Itsaragrisil publicly reprimanding Miss Universe Mexico Fátima Bosch. Itsaragrisil was later dismissed following the controversy, though he subsequently appeared at pageant events, including one with Bosch, who ultimately was crowned Miss Universe.
Entertainment Weekly has reached out to the Miss Universe organization for comment.