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Olivia Yace on her resignation as Miss Universe Africa & Oceania: 'I must stay true to my values'
Olivia Yace of Côte d'Ivoire released a statement following her resignation as the Miss Universe Africa & Oceania.
The statement was written both in English and French and posted on her Instagram account on Monday.
"As the representative of Côte d’Ivoire at the Miss Universe 2025 competition in Bangkok, I witnessed firsthand that I was capable of accomplishing great things despite adversity," Olivia said.
"But 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 said.
Olivia said she wishes to be a role model for the new generation, especially young girls. As she said on the pageant stage, she encourages them to "walk confidently into rooms where they believe they do not belong, and to proudly embrace their identity."
"It is this commitment to being a positive influence that guides my decision today. Stepping away from this diminished role of Miss Universe Africa and Oceania will allow me to dedicate myself fully to defending the values I hold dear," she said.
The beauty queen also congratulated the new Miss Universe, Fatima Bosch of Mexico, and sent her well-wishes to Miss Universe Jamaica, Dr. Gabrielle Henry, who has been hospitalized after falling off the stage during the preliminaries.
Finally, Olivia thanked everyone who has been a part of her Miss Universe 2025 journey.
"I am deeply grateful for the support I have received and for the unforgettable experiences that have shaped me. I will now continue my journey differently, with the same determination to uplift and inspire," she said.
Olivia finished fourth runner-up in the Miss Universe 2025 pageant held in Bangkok, Thailand and was named one of the continental queens along with China, Venezuela, and Malta. The Miss Côte d’Ivoire Committee announced her resignation as Miss Universe Africa & Oceania on Monday.
Meanwhile, Philippine bet Ahtisa Manalo finished third runner-up in the pageant.
—MGP, GMA Integrated News
