Côte d’Ivoire’s star contestant steps down from her continental crown, citing integrity and values

A Volunteer Step Down Amid Pageant Turmoil

24 November 2025: Olivia Yacé, representing Côte d’Ivoire, announced she is resigning from her title of Miss Universe Africa & Oceania — a role she secured after placing fourth runner-up in the Miss Universe 2025 pageant in Bangkok, Thailand. She also declared she will no longer affiliate with the Miss Universe Organization in any capacity. Yacé posted a statement on Instagram and other platforms on 24 November 2025, saying she must “remain true to my values: respect, dignity, excellence and equal opportunity.”

 

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Why She Made the Decision

Yacé explained that her journey through the pageant revealed her own strength and resilience, but that continuing in her role would conflict with her guiding principles. She wrote that while she is deeply grateful for the experience, she wants to devote herself fully to acting as a role model for younger girls and marginalized communities — rather than serving under a title she feels no longer aligns with her mission. The decision came just days after the competition’s final, and is said to involve returning her sash and relinquishing related duties.

Image Credit: LILLIAN SUWANRUMPHA/AFP/Getty

Context: Controversy at Miss Universe 2025

The 2025 pageant has faced multiple controversies — from claims of compromised judging to complaints by contestants and national directors. Yacé’s resignation joins a broader pattern of withdrawal and criticism that the organization is now managing publicly. Her move underscores growing scrutiny of pageant structures and the pressures placed on contestants.

 

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Turning a Crown Into a Platform

Olivia Yacé’s choice to step away from a prestigious title isn’t a retreat — it’s a redirection. By placing her values before the pageant role, she’s reaffirmed her commitment to leadership on her own terms. Her message to young girls and Afro-descendant communities remains strong: “Enter rooms where you are not expected, shine and make sure you assume your identity.” The road ahead for Yacé lies outside the sash — proving that empowerment sometimes means walking away in order to stay true.