GMA Brandtalk
Tracking
Archives
Miss Teen USA 2023 1st runner-up declines title after winner’s resignation
_2024_05_14_18_33_28.jpg)
Miss Teen USA 2023 first runner-up Stephanie Skinner has declined the crown after reigning title holder UmaSofia Srivastava resigned from her post.
The beauty queen made the announcement through a lengthy Instagram post on Sunday.
“Hi everyone. As many of you know, on August 6, 2023, I was crowned Miss New York Teen USA 2023,” Stephanie began.
The representative from New York went on to say that she had put “every ounce of [her] being: into achieving her dream of winning" and “sacrificed” many things in her life.
The 19-year-old explained that her life changed when she was awarded Miss Teen USA runner-up and was given the opportunity to take up the crown when UmaSofia stepped down.
But “in light of recent events, I have decided to decline the title of Miss Teen USA 2023," she said, adding it wasn't an easy decision.
"I hope for respect for my choice as this was a decision I never asked to make. My word is my everything.”
According to Stephanie, she committed to a global research center in Thailand that will require her to live in the country for the summer.
She also send her support to the previous winners, saying that she will always “stand for female empowerment.”
“In addition, although I don't know what Uma and Noelia went through to lead them to resign, I am sending them immense love and support. What I do know is that my core values are integrity, honor, kindness, and most importantly, I will always stand for female empowerment,' she said.
Stephanie also noted that although achieving the crown was a dream of hers, she knew that refusing it was the “right decision.”
“I am even more grateful for the opportunity to make an impact by always supporting and serving those around me as Stephanie,” she added.
Meanwhile, in the comment section, Srivastava voiced out her appreciation for Skinner.
“I am so grateful to call you my friend. You always leave me in awe of your dedication and integrity,” she wrote.
Earlier in May, Srivastava said that she will be resigning from her title and crown.
In her statement, the New Jersey teen offered a vague explanation for her departure, noting the move was necessary because her “personal values no longer fully align with the direction of the organization.
Shortly after, Miss USA 2023 Noelia Voigt also resigned from her post with Miss Hawaii USA Savannah Gankiewicz taking over.
— Jade Veronique Yap/LA, GMA Integrated News
