The Miss Universe Organization (MUO) proudly unveils the exceptional selection committee for the upcoming 72nd Annual Miss Universe competition set to grace San Salvador on November 18th. Embodying the ethos of this year’s extraordinary event, the selection committee is predominantly female, boasting a diverse array of accomplished individuals from varied professional backgrounds.
Let’s introduce the esteemed members of the Selection Committee:
Halima Aden: A trailblazing supermodel renowned for shattering barriers in the fashion realm. Originating from a Kenyan refugee camp and immigrating to the United States at a tender age, Aden made history in 2016 as the first hijab-wearing model signed by a major agency. Her iconic moments include proudly donning a hijab and burkini in the Miss Minnesota USA pageant. A symbol of diversity and inclusivity in fashion, Aden graces magazine covers and struts the runways while advocating for representation and empowerment.
Mario Bautista: Emerging as one of the most prominent Mexican singer-songwriters in the Latin music industry, Bautista’s hits, including “Baby Girl,” “Brindo,” and “Cabrón Yo Puedo,” resonate across genres like Pop, Urbano, and Regional Mexican. With three studio albums and a global stage conquest, Bautista continues his musical ascendancy. His accolades include the “Musical Promise” award at the 2023 Heat Latin Music Awards, nominations at Latin American Music Awards and Premios Juventud, and a performance at Nickelodeon en Español’s 2023 Kids’ Choice Awards.
Giselle Blondet: Co-host of Telemundo’s popular show La Mesa Caliente, Blondet is a multifaceted Puerto Rican personality, excelling as a host, actress, author, and entrepreneur. Her versatile career spans over 25 telenovelas, numerous films, and theatrical productions across Puerto Rico, the United States, and Latin America. Notably, she graces red carpets as a host for events like Telemundo’s Billboard Latin Music Awards and the Latin American Music Awards.
Janelle Commissiong: The inaugural woman of color crowned Miss Universe, Commissiong, representing Trinidad and Tobago, leveraged her platform for children’s education, women’s empowerment, and charitable causes globally. Post-reign, she ventured into the male-dominated boat-building industry, inspiring audiences with her story in various speaking engagements for educational, business, and philanthropic communities. Her impactful journey earned her Trinidad and Tobago’s highest honor, “The Trinity Cross.”
Avani Gregg: A prolific Gen Z digital beauty creator, Gregg’s makeup videos showcase a spectrum of artistry, from avant-garde effects to vibrant glam. Her distinctive style, blending casual street influences with runway-inspired looks, captivates over 60 million engaged fans across multiple platforms. Recognized on Forbes lists, including the 2022 Top Creators and Top TikTok Earner, Gregg’s influence extends through awards like Variety’s 2021 Power of Young Hollywood Impact List and the 2020 Forbes 30 Under 30.
Carson Kressley: An Emmy Award-winning TV personality, style icon, and bestselling author, Kressley gained prominence on Bravo’s Queer Eye for the Straight Guy. His collaborations with Oprah Winfrey reshaped American fashion sensibilities. Engaged in philanthropy, Kressley supports causes like the American Humane Society and serves on the Board of Directors of Cyndi Lauper’s True Colors United, advocating for homeless LGBTQ youth. He remains a pivotal judge on RuPaul’s Drag Race.
Dr. Connie Mariano: With a distinguished 24-year career in the U.S. Navy, Dr. Mariano served as the White House physician to three U.S. presidents and made history as the first female Director of the White House Medical Unit. Her expertise extends to media appearances and hosting podcasts like House Calls with Dr. Connie and The Widow’s Walk. Recognized with the 2020 Global Beauty Awards Lifetime Achievement Award, she stands as an icon in the pageant and beauty community.
Iris Mittenaere: Crowned Miss Universe 2016, Mittenaere embarked on a successful career in television, co-hosting France’s Ninja Warrior and appearing in Dancing With the Stars (France). A celebrated fashion and beauty influencer in France, she advocates for women’s rights and marginalized children globally as an ambassador for the international NGO Vision du Monde.
Sweta Patel: As Vice President of Growth Marketing & Merchandising at Roku, Patel drives viewer engagement and monetization strategies. Her leadership, honed at Apple, Hulu, and other prominent companies, focuses on building marketing technology stacks and launching impactful campaigns worldwide.
Denise White: Renowned as the ‘Olivia Pope of the sports world,’ White, a sports crisis strategist and founder of EAG Sports Management, challenges stereotypes in the sports industry. Her influence extends to Hollywood, with a Netflix dramedy (The Fixer) inspired by her life. A former Miss Oregon USA, White’s impact transcends sports and beauty pageants.
Paula Shugart, president of the Miss Universe Organization, lauds the committee’s brilliance, acknowledging their unique perspectives in the intricate process of selecting the global ambassador for social change and women’s empowerment for 2023.