Olivia Yacé, the Ivorian beauty queen who made waves at Miss Universe 2025, has announced her resignation as Miss Universe Africa & Oceania, severing all future ties with the Miss Universe Organization. The decision, made public on Monday, comes just days after she placed as the fourth runner-up in the global pageant held in Bangkok.
In a heartfelt statement shared on Instagram in both English and French, Yacé explained that her decision was guided by her unwavering commitment to her personal beliefs. “To continue on this path, I must remain true to my values: respect, dignity, excellence, and equal opportunity — the strongest pillars that guide me,” she wrote.
She described stepping away from the role as an opportunity to “fully defend” those values rather than staying in what she called a “diminished role.”
Yacé also addressed her role as a role model, especially for young girls. She called on Black, African, Caribbean, American, and Afro-descendant communities to “continue entering spaces where you are not expected … Our presence matters, and our voices must be heard.”
She said she will return her sash to the Miss Universe Organization as a formal part of her withdrawal.
In her message, the Ivorian pageant queen expressed gratitude for the support she received and reflected on the experience she gained during her Miss Universe journey. “I am deeply grateful for the support … and for the unforgettable experiences that have shaped me. I will now continue my journey differently, with the same determination to uplift and inspire.”
Her decision comes against the backdrop of a contentious Miss Universe 2025, marked by controversy. Several sources report allegations of voting irregularities, resignations within the judging panel, and criticism of the pageant’s integrity.
The Miss Côte d’Ivoire Committee (COMICI), which holds the Miss Universe license in her country, echoed her announcement in its own statement, citing “personal reasons” and confirming her formal withdrawal.
