Palestine’s Debut at Miss Universe: A New Chapter in History
Light House Denver – For the first time, Palestine will send a representative to the international beauty pageant Miss Universe. Nadeen Ayoub, a finalist at Miss Earth 2022 who resides in both Dubai and Ramallah, will compete in Miss Universe 2025. The pageant will take place in Pak Kret, Thailand, on November 21.
Her participation marks a significant milestone for Palestine on the global pageant stage.
Ayoub was crowned Miss Palestine in 2022. She made history as the country’s first representative at Miss Earth, where she placed in the Top 5. However, her plans to join subsequent international competitions were delayed due to the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Palestine.
In an interview with The National (May 14, 2025), Ayoub stated, “I am proud to walk this path, especially in a time when we all need to be a voice for Palestine.”
She added, “I feel honored to have this platform to speak and I want to use it to help my people, particularly those suffering in Gaza and across Palestine every day.”
Ayoub announced her participation through her personal social media accounts. In the post, she appeared graceful in a traditional embroidered tatreez gown designed by Palestinian designer Hiba Abdelkarim. The gown carries deep symbolic meaning and has previously been worn by notable figures, including Queen Rania of Jordan.
Ayoub’s decision to join Miss Universe is driven by a meaningful mission: “to humanize the Palestinian people and challenge global stereotypes.”
She emphasized, “I want to show the world that Palestinian women are not only resilient and beautiful, but also leaders, innovators, and agents of change.”
With an academic background in literature and psychology, Ayoub is a certified health and nutrition coach. She grew up in Palestine, the United States, and Canada. Since earning her Miss Palestine title in 2022, she has been active with Sayidat Falasteen. The Miss Palestine Organisation runs this philanthropic and media platform. It highlights the stories of Palestinian women and supports their businesses. It also showcases their contributions both in the homeland and in the diaspora.
In addition, Ayoub founded the Olive Green Academy, an organization that promotes sustainability through training and educational programs. Through this academy, she helps Palestinian women gain environmental advocacy skills and digital media expertise. She empowers them to develop sustainable businesses and serve as climate ambassadors for their communities.
Amid the grief that continues to affect her homeland, especially in Gaza, Ayoub shared a heartfelt message on social media: “I carry the voice of a people who refuse to be silenced. I represent every Palestinian woman and child whose strength must be seen by the world. We are more than just our suffering; we are resilience, hope, and the heartbeat of a homeland that lives on through us.”
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