Noelia Voigt. Image: Instagram/@noeliavoigt
Venezuelan-American beauty queen Noelia Voigt announced that she has stepped down as Miss USA 2023, saying one should “never compromise [physical] and mental well-being.”
Voigt released her statement through her Instagram page on Monday, May 6, in which she underscored how she values the importance of “making decisions that feel best for you and your mental health.”
“My journey as Miss USA has been incredibly meaningful, representing Utah with pride, and later the USA at Miss Universe. Sadly, I have made the very tough decision to resign from the title of Miss USA 2023,” she said, extending her gratitude to the people who have accompanied her in her pageant journey.
“Every time someone asked me what my favorite part of being Miss USA was, I would always share with them how much I loved getting to work with Smile Train, being a fervent advocate for anti-bullying, dating violence awareness and prevention, immigration rights and reform, and shedding light on my roots as the first Venezuelan-American woman to win Miss USA,” she continued.
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Voigt regarded winning the title as a “lifelong dream” that she achieved, and that gave her a platform to make a difference and to connect with people all over the world.
“Never could I have imagined the journey that my childhood dream would take me on. Constant and consistent hard work and dedication all lead me to where I am today, and I hope that over the last seven years of competing in pageantry and sharing my journey with you all is something that inspires you to never give up on your dreams, whatever they may be.
“Deep down I know that this is just the beginning of a new chapter for me, and 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, and never be afraid of what the future holds, even if it feels uncertain,” she stated.
She also captioned her post: “I realize this may come as a large shock to many. Never compromise your physical and mental well-being. Our health is our wealth. A million thank you’s to all of you for your constant and unwavering support. Time to write the next chapter. I hope you’ll stick around to see what’s next.”
While Voigt’s statement concluded on a good note, netizens swarmed the comments section and pointed out that the first letters of the first 11 sentences in her statement spell “I AM SILENCED” when put together.
It was not immediately known, however, if such was a mere coincidence as the beauty queen has yet to comment on the matter as of this writing.
The Miss USA organization, meanwhile, thanked Voigt and said they respect and support her decision.
“Thank you, Noelia, for your service as Miss USA,” it addressed the beauty queen. “We wish you the best in this next chapter.”
“The well-being of our titleholders is a top priority, and we understand her need to prioritize herself at this time,” it added. “We are currently reviewing plans for the transition of responsibilities to a successor, and we will soon announce the crowning of the new Miss USA.”
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