Olivia Yacé Resigns Miss Universe Africa & Oceania Title, Citing Values Misalignment

Yacé, who placed as the fourth runner-up, said she is severing all future ties with the Miss Universe Organization (MUO), citing a misalignment between her personal principles and the direction of the pageant committee.

Her Statement: “True to My Values”

In a heartfelt message posted on her social media channels, Yacé wrote: “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.” Khaleej Times

“With a heart full of gratitude and profound respect, I hereby announce my resignation from the title of Miss Universe Africa & Oceania, as well as from any future affiliation with the Miss Universe Committee.” Philstar

She recalled her response during the top-5 question-and-answer round: “My greatest wish is to be a role model for the new generation, especially young girls. I encourage them to push their limits, to walk confidently into rooms where they believe they do not belong, and to proudly embrace their identity.” Iconic Africa Magazin

She continued: “It is this commitment to being a positive influence that guides my decision today. Stepping away from this diminished role of Miss Universe Africa & Oceania will allow me to dedicate myself fully to defending the values I hold dear.” HOLA! USA

Yacé also made a powerful appeal to marginalized communities: “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.” HOLA! USA

She concluded with gratitude to her supporters and a rallying cry: “I am deeply grateful for the support I have received and for the unforgettable experiences that have shaped me. I will now continue my journey differently, with the same determination to uplift and inspire … Let us continue to defend our values and strive for greatness together. It’s time for Africa.” Philstar

The Miss Côte d’Ivoire Committee (COMICI) confirmed her resignation, stating she will formally return her sash to the organization. GMA Network

Behind the Scenes: What Sparked the Decision

While Yacé’s public announcement centers on principles, the backdrop of the Miss Universe 2025 pageant has been mired in controversy — and her resignation only adds fuel to the fire.

Speculation She Was Overlooked

Many pageant observers and fans had tipped Yacé as a frontrunner. She delivered powerful catwalks, strong poses, and consistently ranked among the top in preliminary assessments. Some speculate that, despite her performance, internal dynamics worked against her.

Alleged Comments from Miss Universe Ownership

According to social media reports and commentary from some pageant watchers, there is a video in which Raúl Rocha, co-owner of the Miss Universe Organization, reportedly claimed it would be a “handicap” to crown someone from a country whose citizens require many visas to travel. While this is not fully corroborated in mainstream media, rumors suggest it reflects broader tensions lines. (These claims remain largely anecdotal, and no official MUO statement has confirmed the precise content of such a video.)

Controversy Around Miss Mexico, Fátima Bosch

The crowning of Fátima Bosch of Mexico as Miss Universe 2025 has itself stirred strong debate. Some key points raised by critics:

Business Ties to Rocha: Former judge Omar Harfouch, who resigned before the final, alleged that Raúl Rocha is in business with Bernardo Bosch Hernández, Fátima’s father, and that there was pressure to vote for her to win. 

According to reporting, Bernardo Bosch Hernández is a high-level official at Pemex, Mexico’s state oil company.

Rocha responded to the accusations by publishing screenshots and documents, denying any conflict of interest. He argued that he only met the Bosch family shortly before the competition and that there was no prearrangement.

In remarks shared on social media, Rocha also claimed that the three hours of onstage presentation do not reflect the full measure of what a Miss Universe queen must embody.

Why This Resignation Matters

Olivia Yacé’s decision to resign — not just from her continental title, but wholly from the Miss Universe Committee — is being interpreted by many as more than a personal choice. Instead, it’s seen as:

A Call for Transparency: Her words and her walk-away can be read as a broader challenge to how international beauty pageants operate, especially regarding fairness and equal opportunity.

A Stand for Representation: By specifically invoking Black, African, Caribbean, American, and Afro-descendant communities, Yacé frames her resignation as part of a movement, not just a moment.

Potential Pressure on Pageant Bodies: Her bold step could encourage other contestants, fans, or insiders to demand greater accountability from the Miss Universe Organization and similar institutions.

Olivia Yacé of Côte d’Ivoire has announced her resignation from the title of Miss Universe Africa & Oceania 

The committee also said it is informing the Miss Universe organization "of the withdrawal of the Ivorian candidate from all titles and mandates issued by this organization."

Writer: Mucyo Christella/ Former Pageantry Mentor & Organiser