Key Points
- Fatima Bosch Fernandez, 25, from Tabasco, Mexico, crowned Miss Universe 2025 in Bangkok
- First runner-up: Pravneer Singh of Thailand, second runner-up: Stephanie Absalli of Venezuela
- India’s Manika Vishwakarma reached Top 30 but failed to advance to Top 12
- Fatima faced controversy after Thai organizer called her “dumbhead,” walked out in protest
- She has ADHD and dyslexia, advocates for mental health and sustainable fashion
- Mexico’s first Miss Universe crown since 2010, fourth overall for the country
Bangkok: Fatima Bosch Fernandez, a 25-year-old fashion designer from Tabasco, Mexico, defeated contestants from over 90 countries to win the Miss Universe 2025 crown on Friday in Bangkok. Her victory marks Mexico’s fourth Miss Universe title and the first for a contestant from Tabasco state. The finale featured a strong Top 5 lineup, with Pravneer Singh of Thailand securing first runner-up position, Stephanie Absalli of Venezuela placing third, Atisa Manalo of the Philippines fourth, and Olivia Yasay of Côte d’Ivoire fifth.
Powerful Answer on Women’s Empowerment
During the Top 5 question round, Fatima delivered a compelling response when asked about the biggest challenges facing women in 2025 and how she could bring change as Miss Universe. She stated, “I will use my voice for those who cannot speak out. We women are brave and have the power to change history”. Her answer resonated deeply with judges and audiences, proving crucial in securing her victory. Fatima urged women to “believe in the power of your authenticity” and never let anyone make them doubt their worth.
Pre-Pageant Controversy and Solidarity
Fatima’s journey to the crown was nearly derailed by a highly publicized conflict during a pre-pageant event in Thailand. At a livestreamed sashing ceremony on November 4, Thai national director Nawat Itsaragrisil publicly scolded Fatima for allegedly not following guidelines for local promotional activities and called her a “dumbhead”. When she tried to defend herself, Nawat called security, prompting Fatima to walk out of the room. Several contestants, including reigning Miss Universe 2024 Victoria Kjær Theilvig of Denmark, joined her in solidarity. Nawat later apologized tearfully, saying, “If anyone was affected or felt uncomfortable by what happened, I am so sorry”.
India’s Manika Vishwakarma Misses Top 12
Manika Vishwakarma represented India in the competition and secured a spot in the Top 30 based on pre-competition scoring. Her performance in the Top 30 was commendable, but she failed to qualify for the Top 12 due to insufficient scores in the swimsuit and semi-final rounds. Despite this, Manika represented India with honor, confidence, grace, and a message of empowerment. Her elimination disappointed many Indian fans who felt she deserved better placement.
Personal Journey and Advocacy
Fatima has openly discussed her diagnosis with ADHD and dyslexia at a young age, turning these challenges into a platform for mental health advocacy. She studied fashion design in Mexico and Italy, focusing on sustainable designs using discarded materials. For over nine years, she has volunteered with children battling cancer, organizing an annual Christmas toy drive at the Oncology Hospital of Tabasco. Her official Miss Universe biography highlights her work supporting migrants and promoting environmental awareness.
Global Recognition and Impact
Mexico’s first woman president, Claudia Sheinbaum, publicly recognized Fatima for voicing her disagreement in a “dignified” way, calling it “an example of how women should raise our voices”. The Miss Universe Organization president condemned Nawat’s conduct as “public aggression” and “serious abuse”. Fatima’s victory is viewed not just as a beauty pageant win, but as a triumph of dignity over bullying, sending an encouraging message that self-confidence and positive thinking can overcome adversity.
