When the world of pageantry intersects with the corridors of political power, the result can be a memorable celebration that transcends aesthetics. This was illustrated at the Palacio Nacional (National Palace) in the Dominican Republic, where President Luis Abinader and Vice President Raquel Peña warmly received Miss Universe 2024, María Victoria Kjær of Denmark, alongside Miss Universe Dominican Republic 2025, Jennifer Ventura. This courtesy visit was not just a formality but a powerful reminder of how today’s beauty queens represent cultural pride, global advocacy, and resilience in the face of challenges.
During their visit, the queens were immersed in the rich history of the Palacio Nacional, exploring its stunning architecture and the deep-rooted significance of its walls. They learned about the building’s role in Dominican history and its importance as the heart of the nation’s governance. This unique experience provided a backdrop for meaningful dialogue on the social issues that both have actively championed in their respective platforms, highlighting the vital role that beauty pageants play in promoting awareness and inspiring change around the globe.
María Victoria Kjær – The Danish Trailblazer Making History
At just 21 years old, María Victoria Kjær Theilvig has already carved her name into history as the first Dane to win the Miss Universe crown. Born in Herlev, Denmark, she grew up in Copenhagen and pursued business and marketing studies before stepping onto the world stage.
But Kjær isn’t your traditional beauty queen. She started her entrepreneurial journey at 16 with her own eyelash-extension business and has also worked in diamond trading. Add to that her background as a competitive dancer, and you get a multi-talented woman with drive far beyond the runway.
Her Miss Universe win in Mexico City in November 2024 was a triumph not just for Denmark but for representation in the global pageant scene. She also broke the quirky record of becoming the first blonde Miss Universe in 20 years, since Jennifer Hawkins of Australia in 2004.
© Getty ImagesYet, it’s Kjær’s advocacy that truly defines her reign. Having overcome a difficult childhood marked by personal struggles, she champions mental health and resilience. Her powerful message, that your past does not dictate your future, resonates with audiences worldwide.
Beyond mental health, she’s also a dedicated animal welfare advocate, volunteering at shelters and raising awareness for rescue efforts. With her charisma and authenticity, Kjær has redefined what it means to wear the crown: influence rooted in purpose.
Jennifer Ventura – The Dominican Engineer with a Crown and a Cause
While Kjær represents Denmark’s breakthrough on the global stage, Jennifer Ventura Marte embodies the Dominican Republic’s spirit of resilience and empowerment. Crowned Miss Universe Dominican Republic 2025 in Santo Domingo this past August, the 27-year-old from Barahona is a civil engineer specializing in mining and holds an international master’s degree in management.
© @valeryhilarioVentura is no stranger to pageantry, representing her country at Miss International competitions in Tokyo and Egypt. But her latest victory is deeply personal. Just months before the pageant, she lost her mother, Roselin Marte Nova, in the tragic Jet Set nightclub collapse that claimed more than 300 lives. Initially ready to step away from the competition, Ventura instead found the strength to honor her mother’s memory, even wearing a gown inspired by her favorite flower, the orchid.
© @missuniversedominicanaA powerful Q&A response on gender-based violence punctuated her crowning moment. Ventura’s words, calling for education as the first step to cultural change, struck a chord nationwide. Her win also marked a historic milestone for her province, as she became the first woman from Barahona in 40 years to secure the Miss República Dominicana Universo crown.
The National Palace Visit
When Kjær and Ventura stood alongside President Luis Abinader and Vice President Raquel Peña, the symbolism was powerful. It recognized how beauty queens today serve as cultural ambassadors, bridging global and local representation. For the Dominican Republic, it was also a chance to showcase the nation’s commitment to empowering women and celebrating achievements that transcend borders.
Kjær’s global platform and Ventura’s national pride represent young women using their influence for advocacy, resilience, and social change. Together, they highlight how pageantry, often dismissed as superficial, has evolved into a meaningful avenue for cultural diplomacy.
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