(CNN Spanish) – For the first time since 1967, Cuba will have a representative in the Miss Universe beauty pageant.
Marianela Ancheta was crowned Miss Universe Cuba this Thursday in Miami and will represent the island in the most important beauty pageant in the world to be held in Mexico in November.
Prince Julio Cesar, the national director of Miss Universe Cuba, explained in an interview with Telemundo in May that Cuban beauty should be represented in the international pageant. One of the requirements was that the woman had to be Cuban or the daughter of a Cuban father or mother.
Raúl Rocha, president of Miss Universe, said that the organization is apolitical and that its purpose is to promote a message of unity and culture.
Ancheta, who represents the central region of the island, said in a video published on his social networks that “my greatest wish is that my representation can fill Cuba with new achievements. I want to be a voice for those who don’t have one. “I want to be a reflection of Cuban resilience.”
