It’s not fair for a 19-year-old girl to compete with a 40-year-old woman in Miss Universe, says missologist

In September, the management of the most popular beauty contest on the planet, Miss Universe, announced the end of age restrictions for candidates. Previously they had to be between 18 and 28 years old.

The intention is to avoid ageism, age-related discrimination. The new flexibility comes after the authorization made in 2022 so that married women, mothers and divorcees can also apply for the title.

One of the leading experts on the subject in Brazil questions the effectiveness of this opening. “In my opinion it is not right that there is competition between women of such different ages. For example, a 19-year-old girl competes with a 40-year-old woman,” says missologist Evandro Hazzy, of the Hazzy Top Talent company.

“Physiologically speaking, the skin is not the same, the hormones, collagen are different and, above all, the thinking, maturity, psychology, life goals are different.”

According to him, Miss Universe should give priority to young people looking for projection and experience. “They could leave this opportunity to a girl who is starting to build her own life. A 40-year-old woman usually already has a predefined life, professionally and personally, among other aspects.”

Drawing on the experience of having led 8 women to the title of Miss Brazil, Hazzy states that beauty pageants are going through a significant change. “Being a Miss today is much more than winning the crown. It means representing an ideology, having visibility. Miss becomes a spokesperson for many people in need of speaking, brings her speech into public debate and has the opportunity to discuss important and urgent social issues.”

The next edition of Miss Universe will take place on November 18, in San Salvador, the capital of El Salvador. The current occupant of the office, R’Bonney Gabriel, from the United States, will pass the sash and crown. Since last year, the event has been owned by Thai transsexual businesswoman Anne Jakrajutatip.

Source: Terra