In a historic moment for beauty pageants, 22-year-old Jane Dipika Garrett, representing Miss Nepal, has become the inaugural plus-size model to grace the Miss Universe stage. Her runway debut during the preliminary rounds in El Salvador on Wednesday, November 15, left an indelible mark, captivating the audience and sparking immediate discussions.
Garrett, a part-American contestant, is not just competing for the crown; she is on a mission to redefine beauty standards and represent all women, irrespective of adherence to conventional norms. A vocal advocate for body positivity, Garrett shared her vision in an interview with Hola magazine, stating, “As a curvy woman who doesn’t follow certain beauty standards, I’m here to represent all women.”
The journey to Miss Universe has not been without its challenges, especially for someone who has faced personal struggles with body image. The Miss Nepal winner, who openly shared her transformation, reflects on her past, saying, “A few years ago, I was a very insecure person and had very low self-esteem. Now, I love myself, and that’s success to me.”
Garrett’s entry into the Miss Universe competition has stirred controversy, yet her conviction in breaking the mold of conventional beauty standards remains unwavering. In her empowering words, she asserts, “I think there’s not one way to be beautiful; every woman is beautiful just as they are.” Her presence on the global stage signifies a triumph for body positivity, challenging societal norms and promoting a more inclusive definition of beauty.
In a year that has seen increased representation and inclusivity, the Miss Universe 2023 competition stands out for featuring two transgender contestants alongside Garrett, further pushing the boundaries of traditional pageantry.
As Jane Dipika Garrett competes for the coveted Miss Universe title, she does so not only as a contestant but as a trailblazer advocating for a broader, more diverse, and accepting understanding of beauty.
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