In a historic moment for Denmark and the world of beauty pageants, Danish beauty Victoria Kjær Theilvig has been crowned Miss Universe 2024, marking the first time Denmark has claimed the prestigious title in the competition's storied history. The 21-year-old competitive dancer, entrepreneur, and aspiring lawyer triumphed over more than 120 participants in a dazzling display of grace, poise, and confidence during the annual beauty pageant held in Mexico City on a Saturday evening.

As Theilvig received the coveted tiara from reigning titleholder Sheynnis Palacios of Nicaragua, the applause from her fellow contestants on stage was a testament to her hard work, dedication, and the genuine camaraderie that exists among the women who participate in this global event. The evening was filled with excitement and entertainment, as singer Robin Thicke took to the stage to perform, while "Saved by the Bell" star Mario Lopez and former Miss Universe Olivia Culpo expertly co-hosted the show.

The journey to the crown was a rigorous one, with Theilvig and her fellow contestants first participating in a vibrant national costume contest during the preliminary event held on Thursday. This showcase of cultural pride and creativity set the stage for the intense selection process that followed, as the contestants were whittled down to a shortlist of 30 based on their performances and overall presentation.

The semi-finalists then strutted their stuff in swimwear, with 12 of them proceeding to the evening gown segment, where elegance and style were on full display. The final five contestants were later subjected to a Q&A round covering various topics such as leadership and resilience, giving them the opportunity to showcase their intelligence, wit, and ability to think on their feet.

When asked how she would live her life differently if not judged by others, Theilvig responded with a message of empowerment and authenticity, stating she would not alter her approach, as she believes in living life to the fullest each day. Addressing the audience, she encouraged viewers to "keep fighting, no matter where you come from," and declared, "I stand here today because I want a change, I want to make history, and that’s what I’m doing tonight." Her inspiring words and unwavering determination resonated with the audience and the judges, solidifying her position as the rightful Miss Universe 2024.

Chidimma Adetshina from Nigeria was announced as the first runner-up, while Maria Fernanda Beltran of Mexico secured the position of second runner-up. Suchata Chuangsri of Thailand and Ileana Marquez Pedroza of Venezuela were also among the top contenders, with Pedroza, a 28-year-old mother, making a historic mark in the top five following the competition's recent policy changes.

This year's Miss Universe competition was a groundbreaking event in many ways, as it welcomed women over the age of 28 for the first time in its 72-year history, with over two dozen finalists being older than what would have been permitted in previous editions. Malta's Beatrice Njoya became the first and only woman in her 40s to reach the grand finale. The removal of the age limit was part of a broader effort to modernize the pageant, which also included lifting a long-standing ban on pregnant women or mothers, and women who are — or ever have been — married.

Delegates for each country were chosen through local pageants that hold licenses from the Miss Universe Organization, and this year's competition also saw Cuba, represented by Marianela Ancheta, participate in Miss Universe for the first time since 1967. Several nations, including Belarus, Eritrea, and the United Arab Emirates, sent contestants for the first time, showcasing the ever-expanding reach and influence of the Miss Universe Organization.

While the lead-up to this year's final was not without controversy, with the Miss Universe South Africa contest witnessing Adetshina's withdrawal (and subsequent selection to represent Nigeria) after her nationality was questioned, sparking a wave of xenophobic hostility, the event ultimately served as a platform for unity, empowerment, and celebration of beauty and talent from around the globe.

As Victoria Kjær Theilvig embarks on her reign as Miss Universe 2024, she carries with her the hopes, dreams, and pride of her nation, as well as the responsibility to use her newfound platform to make a positive impact on the world. Her historic win serves as an inspiration to women everywhere, proving that with determination, hard work, and a strong sense of self, anything is possible.