Miss Universe 2025 fourth runner-up Olivia Yacé of Côte d’Ivoire is celebrating her achievement with the same grace and grounded determination that carried her through the competition.
Speaking backstage with ABS-CBN News after the coronation night in Mexico, Yacé said the moment was not just personal—it belonged to her entire country.
“Well, it’s amazing,” she said. “I’m representing my country. I’m very proud of how hard I worked, and this one’s for them.”
Standing beside her was the Philippines’ Ahtisa Manalo, who finished third runner-up.
Yacé, already one of the most admired contestants of the night, used the global platform to amplify a message she says has shaped her life: self-love and self-acceptance.
“That is my slogan actually—#assumeyouridentity,” she told ABS-CBN’s Dyan Castillejo. “It’s something I used to struggle with when I was a kid. Growing up, I had to learn to love myself, and I know a lot of young men and young girls go through that. So it’s important.”
Her words struck a chord online, where viewers praised her frankness and emotional intelligence. During the question-and-answer round—often considered the heart of the Miss Universe competition—Yacé delivered confident, thoughtful responses that quickly made her a fan favorite.
In fact, many Filipino viewers, already celebrating Manalo’s strong finish, also argued that Yacé deserved an even higher placement. Their reactions reflected the pageant’s broader audience sentiment: Yacé was among the most compelling speakers of the night, combining poise with a message that resonated beyond borders.
For Côte d’Ivoire, her achievement extends well past her title. Yacé’s run at Miss Universe continues to energize young Ivorians who see in her a model of confidence, cultural pride, and a vocal commitment to mental and emotional wellbeing.
And for Yacé herself, the journey is far from over. As she stepped away from the stage lights, her focus stayed on her core mission: lifting others by encouraging them to embrace who they are.
“Assume your identity,” she said—words that now echo far beyond the pageant stage.
