Karla Majam, a fashion model from Sta. Rosa, Laguna, Philippines, won the Miss UniWorld 2023 title in the pageant final held at JW Marriott Kuala Lumpur on June 11.
The 17-year-old beauty who is of Puerto Rican and Filipino ancestry beat contestants from 24 other countries to the win the prestigious Queen of Kilimanjaro crown, valued at US$400,000 (RM1.8mil).
“I am profoundly honoured to take on the title of Miss UniWorld 2023 and wear the Queen of Kilimanjaro crown,” said jubilant Karla.
She also won the Best Catwalk subsidiary title.
“This victory symbolises so much more than personal achievement. It signifies a promise to uphold the values of Miss UniWorld and serve as an advocate for positive change,” Karla said.
“I’m excited for the opportunities ahead and eager to use this platform to inspire and make a difference,” she added.
Karla now embarks on a journey as a global ambassador to represent Miss UniWorld and carry the torch of empowerment and cultural exchange.
Along with a replica of the crown, Karla will also receive an envy-worthy prize package.
Miss Latvia Anastasija Aleksejevska and Miss Georgia Makuna Amashukeli were named first and second runners-up respectively.
Malaysia’s participant Catherine Lai Hui Yi was awarded the Miss Charming subsidiary title.
The winners were selected by a panel of judges, including former Miss World Malaysia 2019 Alexis Sue Ann, beauty queens Brynn Lovett, Wenanita Angang, Charissa Chong, Deidre Walker and fashion designer Bon Zainal, based on their overall performance, stage presence, talent, and the depth of their answers in the Q&A round.
Miss UniWorld founder Dato’ Reiss Tiara said her vision is to create a platform for women to confidently shine, have a voice, and live up to their fullest potential.
“Additionally, I strongly believe that by joining forces with all the contestants from around the world, we can accomplish more charitable work together, make a positive impact, and contribute towards creating a better world for all,” she said.
She added, “Together with my partner Dato’ Roslan, who shares the same vision to help UniWorld grow into a global pageant brand, we are committed to making UniWorld an empowerment platform for women globally and celebrating the richness of our collective experiences.”
Miss UniWorld chief executive officer Dato’ Roslan Rosdi said Miss UniWorld is not just a beauty pageant but also a platform for women to showcase their talents, share their stories and make a positive impact on the world.
“Majam has the qualities we are looking for, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact she will have as Miss UniWorld 2023,” he said.
Roslan also thanked participants, sponsors, partners and team members for their support and commitment in making Miss UniWorld 2023 a resounding success.
MISS UNIWORLD 2023 WINNERS LIST
Champion – Karla Majam (Philippines)
1st Runner up – Anastasija Aleksejevska (Latvia)
2nd Runner up – Makuna Amashukeli (Georgia)
3rd Runner up – Viktoria Lizo (Germany)
4th Runner Up – Sezen Destina (Turkey)
Subsidiary Titles
Miss Photogenic – Daria Fomichora (Lithuania)
Miss Charming – Catherine Lai Hui Yi (Malaysia)
Miss Natural Beauty – Anastasia Viktorivra Kryzhanovskaya (Ukraine)
Miss Glamorous – Anastasija Aleksejevska (Latvia)
Best Catwalk – Karla Majam (Philippines)
Best Evening Gown – Anastasija Aleksejevska (Latvia)
Best Talent – Isabel Dugenest Assiego (Spain)
Best National Costume – Rulan Nazibar (Indonesia)
