NEW YORK CITY, New York: In a shock to the Miss Universe Organization, Noelia Voigt and UmaSofia Srivastava, the reigning winners of Miss USA and Miss Teen USA, respectively, resigned from their titles within days of each other this week.
The resignations have drawn calls for more transparency into Miss USA and its parent organization, both of which have faced previous controversy and scrutiny.
They have also left the pageant group without its top two titleholders for the first time in 72 years.
Winning in September 2023, Voigt, 24, was the first Venezuelan American to hold the Miss USA title.
“My hope is that I continue to inspire others to remain steadfast, prioritize your mental health, advocate for yourself and others by using your voice,” she said.
“I realize this may come as a large shock to many. Never compromise your physical and mental well-being,” she added, thanking fans for their “unwavering support.”
In its statement, the Miss USA Organization said, “We respect and support Noelia’s decision to step down from her duties. The well-being of our titleholders is a top priority, and we understand her need to prioritize herself at this time.”
Crowned Miss Teen USA last September, Srivastava, 17, announced her resignation in a post on Instagram last week.
“I find that my personal values no longer fully align with the direction of the organization,” she said.
She also thanked her family and fans and stressed that she was glad to represent her state as a first-generation Mexican Indian American.
