By: Valeri Manziuk

Serving as a judge for the Ms World 2024 competition in Las Vegas was an absolute honor and privilege. The experience was extraordinary, from the inspiring contestants to the impeccable organization. As I reflect on my time as a judge, I am filled with admiration for the women who competed and the incredible team behind this prestigious event.

An Experience of a Lifetime

When I first accepted the invitation to be a judge, I knew it would be an exciting opportunity. Still, I could not have anticipated how emotionally powerful it would be. The Ms. World pageant is far more than a beauty competition. It’s a platform for women to share their personal stories, showcase their strengths, and represent their cultures. Every contestant came with a unique background, ambition, and message. Their passion was palpable, and celebrating their individuality was profoundly moving.

The energy in the room was electric from the moment the competition began. The contestants radiated confidence, grace, and intelligence, making our task as judges both challenging and rewarding. It’s one thing to admire beauty, but it’s another to witness women who embody inner strength, leadership, and determination. The caliber of participants this year was truly world-class.

Emotions and Impressions of the Contestants

One contestant that particularly stood out to me was Ms. Classic Poland, Frommer Alina. Her beauty, grace, and poise were undeniable, and I couldn’t help but admire how stunning she looked at her age. Alina embodied elegance and the kind of inner strength and confidence that is truly inspiring. She represented Poland with incredible pride and dignity, showing that beauty transcends age.

Another memorable moment was the striking performance by Miss Colombia World, Rincon Juvinao Cynthia Valentina. Cynthia’s stage presence and performance were captivating. She lit up the stage with her charisma and energy, making it one of the standout moments of the evening. Her representation of Colombia was filled with passion and vibrancy, leaving a lasting impression on both the judges and the audience.

Behind the Scenes: The Organization and Team

The organization of Ms. World 2024 was nothing short of flawless. From the moment I arrived, I could sense the meticulous planning that had made this event successful. The team behind Ms. World, led by CEO Melisa Gun and co-founder Olesia Panchenko, ensured that everything ran smoothly. Their dedication to empowering women and creating a global platform for beauty, intelligence, and cultural representation was evident in every detail.

What particularly impressed me was the diversity and inclusivity promoted by the pageant. Women from all over the world were encouraged to compete and showcase their unique identities. The event celebrated cultural richness, and it was inspiring to see women from different backgrounds come together to celebrate one another. The environment fostered camaraderie, mutual respect, and a shared mission of empowerment.

As a judge, I felt supported by an outstanding panel of fellow judges who brought expertise from various fields, from fashion to business to sports. Each judge had a unique perspective, and together, we made decisions that reflected the multifaceted nature of the competition. Working alongside industry professionals like Nigel Barker, Dimitri Manuel, and Merab Dvalishvili, I gained new insights into evaluating physical beauty and the total package of intelligence, talent, and character.

Unforgettable Performances and Moments

Aside from the competition itself, the entertainment throughout the evening was spectacular. I was especially moved by the performances of 4th Impact, winners of X Factor UK, whose powerful voices filled the room with emotion. The Elvis Presley tribute and Indian dance performances were cultural highlights that added to the richness of the evening. These acts didn’t just entertain; they served as reminders of the global and multicultural essence of the Ms. World competition.

The atmosphere was charged with excitement, anticipation, and admiration from the audience. As judges, we could feel the passion and dedication emanating from the contestants and the enthusiasm from the crowd, which made the night even more special.

Final Thoughts

Being a judge for Ms. World 2024 was a profoundly emotional and rewarding experience. It reaffirmed my belief that beauty is more than appearances—intelligence, compassion, and the ability to inspire. The contestants reminded me of embracing one’s uniqueness and using one’s voice to make a difference. These women are not just contestants in a pageant but future leaders, advocates, and role models.

The Ms. World 2024 competition set a new standard for what a beauty pageant can and should be—a celebration of diversity, empowerment, and the full spectrum of human potential. As I look back on this unforgettable experience, I am grateful for having had the opportunity to contribute to such a meaningful event. I look forward to seeing how these incredible women will continue to shine and make their mark on the world.

Published By: Aize Perez