In the 71 years that the Miss Universe pageant has existed, 2023 was the first year that a plus-sized contestant has ever competed. She made waves with her appearance in the pageant and showed complete confidence in herself and her physique. She was celebrated around the world, and many people loved her inclusion in the iconic event. But there were also many who expressed criticism of Miss Nepal and her appearance. She was truly graceful in her reception of the criticism. Read on to learn more about the first ever plus-sized contestant in the Miss Universe pageant.
Miss Nepal, Jane Dipika Garrett, was overjoyed at her progress in the November 2023 competition. She has aspirations to become a model and has found it hard to pursue that goal in the past because of low self-esteem. But because of the amazing feedback that she got from the pageant, she was able to strengthen her confidence and self-image to embrace herself fully. “I came with a humble heart… but when I won on that stage, I got the loudest applause from the whole entire audience,” she said.
Garrett could not believe how much applause she received while on stage. She said she did not have expectations and was just proud to represent her country and women around the globe. “It was like a breakthrough moment for me and for society that they see something different and real-size beauty,” she shared.
