Filipino designer Michael Cinco will serve on the judging panel for Miss Universe 2024, taking place next month in Mexico City. Cinco, who launched his luxury label in Dubai in 2003, will help select the pageant’s winner during the event, scheduled from November 14 to 16.
Global Contestants Arrive in Mexico City
With more than 80 contestants from around the world arriving in Mexico City for the preliminary rounds, the pageant will culminate in the final on November 16. At that time, reigning Miss Universe, Sheynnis Palacios of Nicaragua, will crown her successor.
Cinco’s Honor in Judging Miss Universe
Cinco expressed his excitement to The National, saying, “I’m truly honoured to be part of the Miss Universe 2024 selection committee.” He emphasized the privilege of witnessing contestants’ unique stories and the potential impact they aspire to make on a global stage. “It’s inspiring to see so many unique stories and perspectives come together. Being involved in choosing a representative who will use her voice to make an impact worldwide is a privilege, and I look forward to seeing each contestant shine,” Cinco said.
Cinco’s Star-Studded Career and Pageant Legacy
Based in Dubai’s Design District, Cinco is known for dressing international icons like Lady Gaga, Beyonce, Kylie Jenner, Rihanna, Madonna, and Mariah Carey. In 2016, he became the first Filipino designer invited to Paris Haute Couture Week, a historic achievement. His creations have long graced the Miss Universe stage, notably dressing Miss USA Elle Smith in 2021 and designing gowns for Miss Universe 2020 Andrea Meza and Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach for their final walks.
Cinco’s gowns have also been worn by Miss Canada, Miss Romania, Miss Argentina, Miss Uruguay, and Miss Czech Republic, as well as by Bollywood actress Urvashi Rautela and Miss Universe 2016 Iris Mittenaere, who served as judges in previous competitions.
Qualities Cinco Will Be Looking For
As a judge, Cinco shared that he seeks “qualities that go beyond physical beauty.” He explained, “Key aspects I’ll consider include authenticity, intelligence, and purpose.” Cinco emphasized his interest in each contestant’s ability to articulate her vision for the causes she’s passionate about, and her confidence in conveying these ideas.
Pageant Embraces Inclusivity in 2024
This year’s Miss Universe has broadened its inclusivity, removing previous restrictions on age, marital status, and body type, and, for the first time, allowing mothers to compete.
