Olivia Yacé Steps Down as Miss Universe Africa and Oceania

Olivia Yacé resigns her Miss Universe Africa and Oceania title, citing personal values and integrity after a turbulent Miss Universe 2025 finale

Olivia Yacé, the Ivorian beauty queen who won the Miss Universe Africa and Oceania continental title and placed fourth runner-up at Miss Universe 2025 in Bangkok, announced her resignation on Monday, citing her commitment to personal values and integrity.

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The announcement was made via her official Facebook page.

In her statement, Yacé explained that stepping down was necessary to uphold the principles guiding her life and career.

She reflected on her journey at Miss Universe, noting that the competition tested her resilience and determination.

“To continue, I must remain true to my pillars: respect, dignity, excellence, and equal opportunity,” she said.

Yacé described her decision as thoughtful and value-driven, emphasising that she would no longer hold the title or associate with the Miss Universe Committee.

She highlighted her mission to inspire younger generations, encouraging girls to confidently enter spaces where they may feel unwelcome and to embrace their identities proudly.

“Stepping away will enable me to dedicate myself fully to defending the values I hold dear,” Yacé wrote, urging Black and African-descendant communities globally to continue breaking barriers and making their voices heard.

She extended congratulations to the new Miss U

niverse and well wishes to Miss Universe Jamaica for a swift recovery.

Her resignation follows a notably turbulent Miss Universe pageant, marked by public disputes, allegations of rigged judging, stage mishaps, and a viral confrontation involving eventual winner Miss Mexico Fátima Bosch.

Yacé was among four continental queens named at the finale, alongside Julia Ann Cluett (Malta, Europe & Middle East), Zhaona Zena (China, Asia), and Stephany Abasali (Venezuela, Americas).

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The Ivorian beauty queen’s departure is expected to fuel ongoing discussions around transparency, contestant treatment, and the evolving dynamics of global pageantry.