The Venezuelan designer and fashion consultant, Prince Julio César, who is responsible for organizing the Miss Universe Cuba (MUC) pageant in Miami, stated that this platform is cultural, not political.
The national director of MUC assured journalist Luis Alfonso Borrego during the Univision TV show "Siéntese Quien Pueda" that the platform he leads is "about beauty, a positive message, unity, respect, and equality, because those are the standards of Miss Universe."
In an interview shared on the pageant's Instagram profile, Prince Julio César declared that most of the women participating or wishing to participate in Miss Universe Cuba seek "recognition from their community, their country, the world, and to be part of the entertainment industry." However, he admitted that some might also have other goals, such as venturing into politics and sending a message to Cuba, which he emphasized is "completely valid."
"We will work along the cleanest, correct line, without hurting sensitivities," he reiterated.
The national director of MUC highlighted that the participants of Miss Universe Cuba, selected through a recent virtual casting, are young women born on the Caribbean island or have at least one Cuban parent. Prince Julio César stressed this requirement, without excluding the possibility that some contestants might come directly from Cuba.
"We don't intend to cover the sun with a finger," he said, referring to the current problems in Cuba, but he underlined that a Miss Universe could not solve them.
The Miss Universe Cuba contest will feature 20 candidates who will undergo a three-month preparation period. During this time, the young participants will receive classes in runway walking, public speaking, photo posing, and will carry out a social project, the national director of the pageant recently assured.
"The beauty of Cuban women is incredible. I've always wondered why these women aren't in Miss Universe," commented the Venezuelan designer, who admitted to being very excited about this professional opportunity.
Recently, the return of Cuba to the Miss Universe contest was announced after a 57-year absence, generating expectations among people. The possibility arose when the new owner of the contest, the Thai Anne Jakrajutatip, mentioned that she "would like to visit the Island and left the door open for Cuban women to participate in the pageant again."
Miss Universe Cuba: Key Insights and FAQs
To provide a clearer understanding of the Miss Universe Cuba pageant and its implications, here are some frequently asked questions and their answers.
What is the main objective of Miss Universe Cuba?
The main objective of Miss Universe Cuba is to promote beauty, a positive message, unity, respect, and equality, aligning with the standards of Miss Universe.
Who can participate in Miss Universe Cuba?
Participants must be young women born in Cuba or have at least one Cuban parent. Some contestants may also come directly from Cuba.
What kind of preparation do contestants receive?
Contestants undergo a three-month preparation period, receiving classes in runway walking, public speaking, photo posing, and participating in a social project.
Why is the return of Cuba to Miss Universe significant?
Cuba's return to Miss Universe after a 57-year absence is significant as it opens opportunities for Cuban women to participate in a global platform, highlighting their beauty and talents.