5 things that made Mexico's Fatima Bosch win the Miss Universe 2025 pageant

It’s a moment of pride for Mexico as Fatima Bosch (Miss Mexico) has been crowned as the Miss Universe 2025 during a heartwarming finale in Thailand. The world isn’t just applauding another beauty queen, it is celebrating a woman who showcased resilience and authenticity throughout the pageant.

Here are five things that led to her winning the coveted title.

1. Resilience: Pageant director insulted Bosch, she chose to walk away!

One of the most defining moments of Bosch’s journey came during a controversial incident with Thai pageant director Nawat Itsaragrisil, who insulted her during the sashing ceremony by calling her “dumb”. Instead of retreating or accepting the disrespect, the 25-year-old chose to speak up and walk out - an act that sent ripples throughout the pageant community.

Her action showcased her composure, self-respect, and courage under pressure. At a time when pageants are increasingly emphasizing a contestant’s character, Bosch’s fearless response set her apart as a woman of integrity.

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2. Authenticity: She bravely accepted her experiences with ADHD and dyslexia

Bosch used her voice and the platform to inspire change. The damsel openly spoke about (and accepted) her experiences with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and dyslexia, inspiring those suffering to embrace themselves. With this, she also advocated for neurodiversity, self-acceptance, and inclusivity.

3. Poise: Her relentless drive to excel left a lasting impression

Although Bosch was relatively new to a global platform like the elusive Miss Universe, she was far from inexperienced. She had previously won Flor Tabasco in 2018 and pursued studies in fashion and apparel design. Yet, she didn’t stop there. Her unwavering drive to push beyond her limits and her hunger for new achievements captivated everyone. Well, that’s what winners do: they never settle, they instead always strive for more.

4. Consistency: From Top 30 to Top 12 to Top 5

Considering how the Miss Universe pageant becomes challenging and fierce every year (and every round!), Bosch’s consistent performance gave her a steady advancement. She first made into the Top 30 semifinalists, then impressed everyone in the swimsuit/training/gala segments to earn a place in the Top 12, and ultimately advanced to Top 5 with her confidence and of course, her powerful answer. If reports are to be believed, she may have been in pain during the pageant as she allegedly injured her foot before the finals, yet did not resort to complaining or backing out.

5. A commanding final answer: A response that got her the crown

Bosch’s final answer wasn’t just a response, it was a crown-worthy moment that showcased her integrity. On being asked the challenges of being a woman in 2025 and how would she use the title of Miss Universe to create a safe space for women, the Mexican beauty answered “As a woman, and as Miss Universe, I will put my voice and the power in the service of others … today we are here to speak up, to make change … because we are women - the brave ones that stand up are the ones that will make history.”

In her winning speech, she also urged women to “Believe in the power of your authenticity. Your dreams matter, your heart matters. Never let anyone make you doubt your worth.”

Bosch was crowned at a glittering ceremony in Thailand by Miss Universe 2024, Victoria Kjaer Theilvig of Denmark. Miss Thailand took the title of first runner-up, while Miss Venezuela was named second runner-up. India’s Manika Vishwakarma narrowly missed the Top 12 cut.