In a stunning move that has rocked the international pageant world, Olivia Yacé, the Ivorian beauty queen who represented Africa with distinction at Miss Universe 2025, has voluntarily relinquished her prestigious title of Miss Universe Africa & Oceania.
A Decision Rooted in Principle
The Miss Côte d'Ivoire Committee (COMICI) made the official announcement on Monday, November 24, 2025, revealing that Yacé was withdrawing from all her elected mandates with the Miss Universe organization. The committee, which holds the Miss Universe license for Ivory Coast, expressed regret while respecting her personal decision.
The effective date of her resignation was immediate, with Yacé formally returning her sash to the organization to confirm the joint decision. This dramatic development follows the 74th edition of the Miss Universe International pageant held on November 21, 2025, at the Impact Arena in Bangkok, where Yacé had placed as fourth runner-up while earning the continental title for Africa and Oceania.
Yacé's Personal Statement of Values
On her official Facebook page, Olivia Yacé explained her surprising decision in a heartfelt statement. She emphasized that stepping away from the title was necessary to preserve the core principles that guide her life and career.
"To continue, I must remain true to my pillars: respect, dignity, excellence, and equal opportunity," Yacé wrote, describing her resignation as a thoughtful and value-driven choice.
Reflecting on her Miss Universe journey, she acknowledged the challenges she overcame: "As Côte d'Ivoire's representative at Miss Universe 2025, I proved I am capable of achieving great things despite adversity. The competition tested my strength, determination, and readiness to overcome challenges."
However, Yacé revealed that she no longer felt she could fully realize her potential within the constraints of the title, despite her disciplined approach to the competition.
A New Chapter of Inspiration and Advocacy
Yacé's mission has always centered on inspiring younger generations. "My mission has always been to inspire younger generations. As I stated onstage, I want to be a role model for young girls, encouraging them to confidently enter spaces where they may feel unwelcome and to embrace their identity proudly," she expressed.
She extended a powerful call to action to Black and African-descendant communities worldwide, urging: "I call upon Black, African, Caribbean, American, and Afro-descendant communities to continue entering spaces where you are not expected, opening paths for those who follow. Never allow others to define or limit your potential. Our presence matters, and our voices must be heard."
The beauty queen concluded her statement with gratitude and optimism, writing: "I deeply appreciate the support I have received and the experiences that have shaped me. I now embark on a new journey with unwavering determination to uplift and inspire. Thank you to all who have been part of this exceptional adventure. IT'S TIME FOR AFRICA."
Context of a Turbulent Pageant
Yacé's resignation comes amid one of the most controversial Miss Universe pageants in recent memory. The 2025 edition was marked by:
- Public disputes among organizers
- Allegations of rigged judging
- Multiple stage mishaps during the broadcast
- A viral confrontation involving the eventual winner, Miss Mexico Fátima Bosch
Despite the turmoil, Yacé had impressed pageant fans and judges with her remarkable eloquence during the question and answer segment. Many supporters believed she deserved a higher placement, with some arguing on social media that she should have won the Miss Universe 2025 crown outright.
In her departing statement, Yacé demonstrated her characteristic grace by congratulating the new Miss Universe and sending well wishes to Miss Universe Jamaica for a swift recovery from unspecified health issues.
This resignation marks a significant moment in pageant history, where a titleholder has chosen personal integrity over prestigious honors, setting a powerful example for future contestants and advocates worldwide.
