Cuban contestant Marianela Ancheta shared a heartfelt message with her followers after securing a spot in the top 30 of the 2024 Miss Universe pageant. "My Cuba! We didn't win, but we've made history! This is just the beginning of everything we are going to achieve!" she expressed on her Instagram account. "I love you all! Thank you so much for everything!" she added, accompanied by a photo with Emilio Estefan, one of the pageant's judges.
Marianela's participation in the 73rd edition of Miss Universe marked Cuba's return to the competition after a 57-year absence. The young woman from Villa Clara made it to the semifinals, thanks to her beauty, poise, and intelligence, though she was unable to progress further.
The title was clinched by Denmark's representative, a 21-year-old Business and Marketing graduate noted for her beauty, charm, and elegance. Marianela graciously congratulated the winner, stating, "Many congratulations, queen!" on her social media.
A Historic Runway Moment
In her final runway appearance, the Cuban contestant wore an outfit inspired by the Virgin of Charity of Cobre and carried a very special talisman: a coin belonging to legendary singer Celia Cruz. Despite not taking the crown, Marianela considers representing her homeland on the Miss Universe stage a dream come true.
"This achievement is the result of discipline, sacrifices, tears, countless sleepless nights, anxious days, and relentless effort. I stand here not just as Marianela, but as a reflection of the strength and passion of every Cuban who never stops dreaming," she conveyed in an emotional Instagram post.