In a groundbreaking achievement for Ethiopia and the African continent, 19-year-old Hasset Dereje Admassu has been named First Runner-Up at the 72nd Miss World pageant, held on May 31, 2025, in Hyderabad, India.
Her achievement marks the highest placement ever for an Ethiopian contestant in the global competition’s history. In addition to the runner-up title, she was also crowned Miss World Africa 2025, further solidifying her legacy on the international stage.
Hailing from Ethiopia, Hasset is not only a rising model but also a chemical engineering student and passionate public health advocate. Her standout performance at the Miss World competition was attributed to her eloquence, grace, and unwavering commitment to maternal health and girls’ education, particularly in underserved rural communities.
Her “Beauty With a Purpose” project impressed both judges and audiences, centering on improving access to medical care and educational opportunities for women and girls. During the final Q&A segment, Hasset moved the audience with her heartfelt reflection:
“There are so many children and mothers behind me that get so many things from me just from standing here.”
The 2025 Miss World results were as follows:
- Miss World 2025 – Opal Suchata Chuangsri (Thailand)
- 1st Runner-Up – Hasset Dereje Admassu (Ethiopia)
- 2nd Runner-Up – Maja Klajda (Poland)
- 3rd Runner-Up – Aurélie Joachim (Martinique)
Hasset’s success has sparked a wave of national pride throughout Ethiopia, with celebratory messages pouring in from public figures, media outlets, and citizens. Many have hailed her as a trailblazer for Ethiopian women and a symbol of empowered African youth.
Social media platforms in Ethiopia erupted with congratulations, with many users calling her journey a “victory for all Ethiopian women” and a bold step forward for African representation in global pageantry.
Although she narrowly missed the crown, Hasset’s presence and message have left an indelible impact.
She is expected to continue her advocacy for gender equity and health justice, inspiring a new generation of African girls to dream beyond borders.
