REIGNING Miss Universe Victoria Kjær Theilvig is being praised for her display of leadership and solidarity after standing up for Miss Universe Mexico 2025, Fátima Bosch, who was publicly confronted during a pre-pageant event in Thailand.
During the controversial “sashing” program, Bosch was called out by Thai host-committee head Nawat Itsaragrisil for allegedly refusing to participate in sponsor activities. Videos show Bosch walking out of the venue, with Theilvig consoling her as she and several other contestants followed suit in silent protest.
In a clip posted on social media, Theilvig told reporters outside the venue that she was walking out because trashing another girl is something that she does not stand for.
“I’m sorry. We need to do something. We have respect for everyone. But this is not how things can be handled. To trash another girl is beyond disrespectful, and it’s nothing I, as a person, can stand. That’s why I’m taking my phone and I’m going,” she said.
After the incident, Theilvig took to her Instagram Stories to express how proud she was of Bosch for standing up for herself, emphasizing that “enough is enough, and their voices will be heard loud and clear.”
“Standing up for yourself is not always easy, but it is one of the most important acts of self-respect and strength you can show. It means knowing your worth, setting boundaries, and not allowing anyone or anything to undermine your voice or your value. It’s about acknowledging that you have a right to be heard, to express your opinions, and to pursue your dreams, regardless of any obstacles that may come your way,” Theilvig captioned her post.
In a separate story, the Danish beauty queen posted a group photo with Miss Universe 2025 delegates, with the caption, “This is women empowerment. This is sisterhood. Forever and always @missuniverse.”
Netizens applauded Theilvig’s powerful stance and thanked her for being on the side of her fellow beauty queens amid tension.
The Miss Universe Organization earlier released a statement assuring that it remains committed to upholding “respect, safety, and integrity” for all participants.
Miss Universe Mexico’s organization, on the other hand, has defended Bosch, stating that “no woman should be humiliated on any stage.”
Theilvig, who won the Miss Universe 2024 crown for Denmark, is currently in Thailand fulfilling her duties as reigning queen ahead of this year’s pageant.
Ahtisa Manalo is vying to bring home the 5th Miss Universe crown for the Philippines. (Jessica Ann Evangelista © Philippine Daily Inquirer)
