Miss Grand International 2024 Concludes in Bangkok
The highly anticipated finale of Miss Grand International 2024 was held on October 25 in Bangkok, Thailand, showcasing 69 contestants representing diverse nations. The event concluded after a rich month of activities, with India’s Rachel Rupta emerging as the winner.
In an event lasting nearly three hours, Rachel Rupta was crowned as Miss Grand International 2024. The runners-up included Christine Opiaza from the Philippines (1st runner-up), Thae Su Nyein from Myanmar (2nd runner-up), Safiétou Kabengele from France (3rd runner-up), and Talita Hartmann from Brazil (4th runner-up).
At just 20 years old and standing 1.78m tall, Rachel is a model, entrepreneur, and actress, also running her own beauty academy and salon. Her impressive presentation and articulate responses contributed to her victory, which delighted fans around the globe. Throughout the competition, she exhibited remarkable composure and charm.
A vegan since childhood, Rachel began her entrepreneurial career at the age of 18. Coming from a family of real estate professionals, she was inspired to enter the business world. Fans celebrated her victory, recognizing her consistent excellence during the pageant.
The finale began with the reigning titleholder, Luciana Fuster, making a stunning entrance alongside all 69 contestants. Luciana, dressed in a vibrant yellow outfit decorated with intricate designs, captivated the audience and led a lively dance performance that energized the atmosphere for the evening.
Each contestant confidently introduced herself through a stylish catwalk set to energetic music, receiving warm applause from the audience. Contestants from France and India particularly stood out, with Vietnam’s Vo Le Que Anh also captivating audience members in her elegant gown as she proudly represented her country.
Despite a strong showing, Que Anh did not advance to the Top 20, marking the end of Vietnam’s remarkable eight-year streak of reaching this phase since 2016. Her early exit took many spectators by surprise, considering her positive pre-competition reputation.
During the event, awards for Best National Costume were granted to representatives from Brazil, Ecuador, and Honduras. Additionally, Miss Grand Myanmar earned the “Country’s Power of the Year” title, based on social media voting, securing her a place in the Top 20.
Following the announcement of the Top 20, the contestants showcased their poise in the swimsuit round, impressing the audience as they walked across the stage. The contestants from the Americas made strong impressions, with Peru’s Arlette Rujel winning the audience’s heart with her vibrant dance moves. Contestants from the Philippines, India, Dominican Republic, and Indonesia also maintained their strong presence.
Indonesia’s Nova Liana was voted Miss Popular Vote and secured a spot in the Top 10. The other finalists included representatives from France, Myanmar, Peru, Spain, India, Brazil, Dominican Republic, Philippines, and England.
Fans were disappointed when Akisha Albert from Curacao, a Top 10 finalist at Miss Universe 2018, did not advance to the Top 10.
The Top 10 contestants delivered impactful speeches aimed at promoting peace and unity. Rachel Rupta from India particularly shone with her eloquent English, emphasizing the importance of embracing diversity and how our differences can enhance human connections.
The evening gown segment showcased the finalists in elegantly chosen gowns that highlighted their grace. Ultimately, the final five contestants announced were from the Philippines, Myanmar, Brazil, India, and France, recognized for not only their beauty but also their professionalism and communication abilities.
In the final question and answer session, the contestants were asked to identify a pressing global issue and propose a solution. Christine Opiaza from the Philippines spoke about war and violence, urging compassion, while Thae Su Nyein from Myanmar brought attention to plastic pollution and the need for actions to reduce waste. Talita Hartmann from Brazil advocated for education as a vital solution to global challenges, whereas Rachel Rupta discussed overpopulation and resource scarcity, proposing responsible global strategies like family planning. France’s Safiétou Kabengele highlighted the media’s role in raising awareness of critical issues.
In a night filled with fierce competition, India’s Rachel Rupta was awarded the title of Miss Grand International 2024. Her grace, intelligence, and poise earned her admiration from judges and supporters alike. The event concluded with applause and cheers as Rachel embarked on her journey as the new Miss Grand International, poised to advocate for peace and unity worldwide.
Miss Grand International 2024 celebrated cultural exchange and global harmony in Bangkok, Thailand, with participants from 69 countries. The next event will be hosted in Mexico, where Rachel Rupta will hand over her crown.