Miss Côte d’Ivoire Olivia Yace has stepped down from her title as Miss Universe Africa and Oceania.
Photo: Olivia Yace/Facebook
In an official statement released on November 24, Olivia announced that she would resign from the title, as well as any future affiliation with the Miss Universe Committee.
“As the representative of Côte d’Ivoire at the Miss Universe 2025 competition in Bangkok, I witnessed firsthand that I was capable of accomplishing great things despite adversity. But to continue on this path, I must remain true to my values: respect, dignity excellence, and equal opportunity the strongest pillars that guide me,” she said.
“Throughout my journey as an ambassador and beauty queen, I have served with commitment, resilience, discipline, and determination. However, to fully reach my potential, I must remain firmly anchored in my values [and] guiding principles that pave the way toward excellence,” she added.
She explained that her greatest wish is to become a role model for young girls who want to conquer the world by “proudly embracing their identity.” However, resigning from the title will allow her to firmly hold her values and principles.
“I call upon Black, African, Caribbean, American, and Afro-descendant communities: continue entering spaces where you are not expected. Let us open the way for the brothers and sisters who will follow us. Never let anyone define who we are or limit our potential. Our presence matters, and our voices must be heard,” she stated.
“Thank you to all those who have been part of this exceptional adventure. Let us continue to defend our values and strive for greatness together,” she concluded her post. “It’s time for Africa.”
The 27-year-old beauty queen finished fourth runner-up in the Miss Universe 2025 pageant, while the Philippine bet, Ahtisa Manalo, was third runner-up.
Fátima Bosch of Mexico bagged the Miss Universe 2025 crown. However, allegations of rigged results continue to hound the Miss Universe Organization, which prompted President Raul Rocha to issue several statements regarding the matter.
“It is only logical to understand that it is impossible to determine who will represent the organization globally by observing and scoring just three hours of a show. Three hours onstage do not reflect all the qualities that, from my perspective with clear objectivity, the woman who represents us before the world must possess,” Raul wrote in an Instagram post.
As of writing, the Miss Universe Organization has yet to address Olivia Yace’s resignation. They are also yet to announce who will take over the Miss Africa and Oceania position.
ALSO READ: Get to Know Ahtisa Manalo, the Philippines’ Bet at the 74th Miss Universe
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