Chelsea Manalo was recently crowned Miss Universe Philippines 2024. Get to know all about the history-making queen in this article.
Chelsea Manalo makes history with Miss Universe Philippines crowning
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Chelsea Anne Manalo, born on 14 October 1999, in Meycauayan, Bulacan, made history by being crowned Miss Universe Philippines 2024.
She is the first Filipino of African descent to win the title.
Manalo, an advocate for indigenous people and youth empowerment, will represent the Philippines at the Miss Universe 2024 pageant in Mexico.
Five things to know about Chelsea Manalo
Background and Early Life:
Born to a Filipino mother and an African-American father, Manalo grew up in Bulacan.
After her father passed away, she was raised by her mother and stepfather. She has a degree in tourism.
Modelling and Pageantry:
Manalo began her modelling career at 14 and participated in various pageants.
She competed in Miss World Philippines 2017, where she placed in the Top 15.
She has cited Naomi Campbell as an inspiration and became an endorser for the Philippine clothing brand Bench in 2021.
Journey to Miss Universe Philippines 2024:
Manalo was one of 55 delegates in the Miss Universe Philippines 2024 competition.
Despite facing financial hardships, she made a significant impression and was named one of the top contenders.
During the competition, she faced criticism for including a controversial construction site in her tourism video but remained undeterred.
Historic Win:
At the coronation night, Manalo advanced to the Top 5 and delivered a powerful answer about using her beauty and confidence to empower others.
She emphasized her experience as a woman of colour facing challenges and believing in herself.
Her win was considered a “dark horse” victory, defying unfavourable predictions from observers.
Advocacies:
Manalo is an advocate for the indigenous Dumagat people of Norzagaray, Bulacan.
She has worked with the youth organisation Kids for Kids, aiming to empower indigenous youth.