Olivia Yacé steps down as Miss Universe Africa & Oceania

MANILA, Philippines, November 26 ------ Côte d’Ivoire’s Olivia Yacé, who finished as fourth runner-up at Miss Universe 2025, has relinquished her Miss Universe Africa & Oceania title and withdrawn from all related duties. The Miss Côte d’Ivoire Committee (COMICI) announced through Facebook that it has formally notified the Miss Universe Organization “of the withdrawal of the Ivorian candidate from all titles and mandates issued by this organization.”

“The COMICI (Miss Côte d’Ivoire Committee), holder of the Miss Universe license, regrets to announce the withdrawal of its representative, Olivia Yacé, Miss Côte d’Ivoire 2021, for personal reasons, from her elected mandates with Miss Universe, obtained at the conclusion of the 74th edition of the Miss Universe International pageant, to be held on November 21, 2025, at the Impact Arena in Bangkok,” the committee said.

The group added that Yacé is stepping down from her continental title “effective immediately” and will return her sash “to ensure that no one is unaware of this and to attest to this joint decision.” Yacé also released her own statement, posted in English and French, explaining her decision to walk away from the role. “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. 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 wrote.

She said her resignation from the Miss Universe Africa & Oceania title, as well as “any future affiliation with the Miss Universe Committee,” is rooted in her desire to stay aligned with those principles. “Throughout my journey as an ambassador and beauty queen, I have served with commitment, resilience, discipline, and determination,” Yacé said, adding that she believed stepping away “will allow me to dedicate myself fully to defending the values I hold dear.”

The Ivorian beauty queen reiterated her commitment to inspiring the next generation, particularly young girls, quoting part of her onstage message, "My greatest wish is to be a role model for the new generation, especially young girls. I encourage them to push their limits, to walk confidently into rooms where they believe they do not belong, and to proudly embrace their identity.” Yacé also directed a message to Black and Afro-descendant communities worldwide. “Continue entering spaces where you are not expected. Let us open the way for the brothers and sisters who will follow us. Never let anyone define who we are or limit our potential. Our presence matters, and our voices must be heard," she said. In her statement, she congratulated the newly crowned Miss Universe and wished Miss Universe Jamaica “a swift recovery,” sending her “all my affection.”

In closing, Yacé thanked supporters and reflected on her 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. Thank you to all those who have been part of this exceptional adventure. Let us continue to defend our values and strive for greatness together. IT'S TIME FOR AFRICA.”

Source: manilatimes.net