Defying Age Limits, Yajaira Quizhpi Makes History in Miss Universe Ecuador

Yajaira Quizhpi, a 46-year-old chemical engineer, is breaking barriers as the oldest contestant ever

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Jun 23, 2024 - 01:13
Defying Age Limits, Yajaira Quizhpi Makes History in Miss Universe Ecuador

Yajaira Quizhpi, a 46-year-old chemical engineer, is breaking barriers as the oldest contestant ever to vie for the Miss Universe Ecuador crown. Representing the Sierra region, she joins 24 other women in the national competition with the winner going on to represent Ecuador at Miss Universe this September in Mexico.

Quizhpi's participation is a direct result of the Miss Universe organization's recent rule changes. Previously, age restrictions limited contestants to between 18 and 28. Now, with no upper age limit, Quizhpi embraces the opportunity: "We have broken barriers and, as women, we can take a step forward without fear," she told en Español.

Her journey is inspiring not just for her age, but for the wider message it carries. The new rules also allow mothers and married women to compete. Among the contestants are seven mothers, with four married and three divorced. Daysi Laman, a divorced contestant with three children, applauds the changes and admires Quizhpi's courage. "She is one of the most experienced... a beautiful woman, capable and intelligent," says Laman.

Another contestant, Carolina Cobo, a single mother of a seven-year-old, highlights the fight against societal limitations. "We don't have to be locked into ideas about age or motherhood. We are women with dreams, messages, and a purpose in life," Cobo states.

This focus on inclusivity isn't unique to Ecuador. In April, Alejandra Rodriguez, a woman in her sixties, became the first sexagenarian contestant in the Miss Universe franchise, winning Miss Buenos Aires. While her Miss Universe journey ended in May, Rodriguez believes her participation was "a step towards change."

The story doesn't end there. The Miss Universe organization, which is the parent company of Miss USA, has faced recent criticism regarding mismanagement and contestant well-being. However, the focus in Ecuador remains on the inspiring stories of women like Quizhpi and the message of inclusivity that her participation represents.

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