In a historic moment for her country, Miss Nicaragua Sheynnis Palacios was crowned Miss Universe 2023 on Saturday night in San Salvador, El Salvador. The 23-year-old Palacios, a mental health activist and audiovisual producer, became the first woman from Nicaragua to win the coveted title.

Palacios, who previously represented Nicaragua in the 2017 Teen Miss Universe pageant and the 2021 Miss World pageant, impressed the judges with her intelligence, poise, and dedication to advocacy. She is a passionate advocate for mental health awareness, having experienced debilitating bouts of anxiety herself. She hopes to use her platform to promote mental health education and support for those struggling with similar challenges.

During the competition, Palacios captivated the audience with her heartfelt response to a question about her greatest weakness. She spoke openly about her struggles with anxiety, admitting that it had sometimes held her back in life. However, she emphasized that her anxiety had also made her a stronger and more compassionate person. "My greatest weakness has also been my greatest strength," she declared.

Palacios's victory was met with jubilation in her home country, with Nicaraguans celebrating her achievement across social media and in the streets. Her win is a testament to the resilience and determination of the Nicaraguan people, who have faced many challenges in recent years.

In addition to crowning Palacios as Miss Universe, the pageant also awarded the titles of first runner-up to Miss Thailand, Anntonia Porsild, and second runner-up to Miss Australia, Moraya Wilson. The 72nd Miss Universe competition featured 84 contestants from around the globe.

Palacios's reign as Miss Universe is sure to be an inspiring one. Her intelligence, compassion, and dedication to advocacy will make her a powerful role model for young women around the world.