Watch: Runner-up in Miss Universe 2023 lauds Malala in competition

Miss Thailand cited the education activist as a symbol of strength and positive change

In the enchanting spectacle of the 72nd Miss Universe beauty pageant held in El Salvador, over 80 participants competed for the coveted title and crown. Sheynnis Palacios from Nicaragua secured the title of Miss Universe 2023 whereas Miss Thailand Anntonia Porsild clinched the first runner-up along with Miss Australia Moraya Wilson concluding the contest as the second runner-up.

During the final question round that determined their standings, the top three contestants were asked to name another woman they would choose to spend a year as and the reason behind it.

In response, Miss Thailand expressed her admiration for education and human rights activist Malala Yousafzai. She acknowledged Malala's struggles for women's education and rights, citing her as a symbol of strength and positive change. The 27-year-old said, “I would choose Malala Yousafzai because I know the struggles she had to deal with in order to get to where she is today.”

FINAL Q&A starting with Thailand! @porxild#72ndMISSUNIVERSE #MissUniverse2023 @TheRokuChannel pic.twitter.com/w71IH4kEvY

— Miss Universe (@MissUniverse) November 19, 2023

“She (Malala) had to fight for women's education and fight for all women to be able to stand strong and be the change and lead by example. If I could choose anyone, that would be her,” the Thai model added.

Internet users applauded Miss Thailand for her thoughtful answer. Meanwhile, Miss Australia opted for her mother in response. She praised her mother as a "very strong" woman who taught her the values of hard work, bravery, and strength.

Miss Nicaragua, the ultimate winner, revealed that she would choose Mary Wollstonecraft, emphasizing the British philosopher’s groundbreaking contributions to women's rights and gender equality. She underscored the significance of gender-neutral pay, advocating for equal compensation to enable women to engage in various fields without discrimination. “There is no limit for women,” she said.

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