Even though Mexico’s Fátima Bosch won this year’s Miss Universe pageant held in Bangkok, Thailand, some social media fans still can’t stop commending Miss Côte d’Ivoire, Olivia Yacé, for her charisma and intelligence and for bringing international recognition to her country.
Yacé, being in the top 5, already sent social media agog as beauty queens from the U.S., the Philippines, and Latin American countries such as Puerto Rico have usually taken that spot in the past.
Despite making history as the first from her country to be a fourth runner-up, many believe Yacé deserved more and should have even been the winner of the competition.
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They base this on her response in the Question and Answer segment of the pageant, where she urged young girls to “assume their identity” and not be afraid to make an impact in places where society thinks they can’t.
Yacé was asked: “What emotional skill should be taught to every child in school?”
This is what she said: “The emotional skill that should be taught to every child is self-love. It’s the foundation for confidence, resilience, and healthy relationships. When children learn to love and accept themselves, they’re equipped to navigate life’s challenges and shine their unique light.”
During the second part of the Question and Answer portion, contestants were asked how they would use the Miss Universe crown to empower young girls.
Yacé said: “Well, as an ambassador and as Miss Universe, I would want to be the face of a representation of a new generation that mixes culture, that mixes modern and traditional. I want to be the face of a new era of women that are bold, that are leaders, that are unapologetic about who they are. If I’m Miss Universe, I want to be a role model for all the young girls and let them know that you too can make it. Go in those rooms where you think you don’t belong, shine, and make sure you assume your identity. Because it’s time.”
“Unbiased opinion: Cote D’Ivoire delivers the best answer,” an X user said.
“You deserved the crown tonight… but what truly matters is that your charisma left its mark on the universe. You proudly represented your country and Africa!” another user on the platform wrote.
“This is the winning answer, Miss Universe 2025 should’ve been Miss Cote d’Ivoire,” a third X user stated while sharing a video of Yacé answering her questions.
Another commented, “I don’t give a f*** what anybody says, she deserved to be Miss Universe 2025; she was by far the most poised, eloquent, beautiful and decent… the only reason Miss Mexico won was because (Miss Universe president) Raul Rocha organised the event…”
Yacé, an entrepreneur and philanthropist, is behind the Olivia Yacé Foundation, which empowers women and children through education and health initiatives.
The 28-year-old is also the General Manager of Olivia Yacé International, a Tourism Ambassador of Côte d’Ivoire, and Brand Ambassador for Air Côte d’Ivoire.
She was joined in the top 5 by Miss Thailand, Miss Philippines, Miss Venezuela, and Miss Mexico, with Miss Mexico eventually being crowned the winner.
