Ivorian beauty queen Olivia Yacé has announced her resignation as Miss Universe 2025 Africa & Oceania, saying she cannot continue in the role if it conflicts with her core values of respect, dignity and equal opportunity.
In a post shared on Instagram, Yacé said: “To continue on this path, I must remain true to my values: respect, dignity, excellence, and equal opportunity are the strongest pillars that guide me.”
She went on to write: “With a heart full of gratitude and profound respect, I hereby announce my resignation from the title of Miss Universe Africa and Oceania, as well as from any future affiliation with the Miss Universe Committee.”
Yacé, who represented Côte d’Ivoire and placed as 4th Runner-Up during the Miss Universe 2025 pageant in Bangkok, pledged to dedicate herself without compromise. “My greatest wish is to be a role model for the new generation… I encourage young girls to push their limits, to walk confidently into rooms where they believe they do not belong…” she said.
Her decision has already sparked conversation across the pageantry world about governance, representation and integrity in beauty contests. Yacé concluded her statement with a rallying cry: “It is TIME for Africa.”
