• Noelia Voigt has shocked the world
  • The Miss USA winner has left the crown vacant
  • She cited mental health reasons for her departure

In an unprecedented move that has sent ripples across the beauty pageant world, Noelia Voigt, the newly crowned Miss USA 2023, has decided to relinquish her title, citing the importance of mental health. This decision marks a pivotal moment in pageant history, emphasizing the prioritization of personal well-being over traditional duties.

Voigt's announcement on Instagram has sparked a conversation about mental health awareness and self-care in high-pressure industries.

A champion for many folks

It's now a world where the glitz and glamour of pageantry often overshadow the personal struggles of its participants, Noelia Voigt's recent announcement comes as a breath of fresh air. The Utah beauty, who made history as the first Venezuelan-American to win Miss USA, has decided to step down from her prestigious role, putting her mental health first.

Voigt's decision is not just about stepping back; it's about stepping up for mental health. "This is just the beginning of a new chapter for me," she declared on Instagram, inspiring countless others to prioritize their well-being. Her courageous move has been met with support from the Miss USA Organization, which stated, "the well-being of our titleholders is a top priority."

As Voigt exits the stage, all eyes are on Savannah Gankiewicz of Hawaii, the first-runner-up, who may soon step into the spotlight as the new Miss USA. With the organization reviewing plans for a smooth transition, the beauty pageant world is buzzing with anticipation about who will inherit the crown.

Voigt's reign, though brief, was impactful. From advocating for Smile Train to addressing anti-bullying, dating violence prevention, and immigration rights, Voigt used her platform to champion causes close to her heart. "Eternal gratitude fills my heart," she reflected, proud of the difference she made.

As a contestant in November, Voigt spoke about the importance of her heritage during the final Q&A round when she was asked what she would contribute to the Miss Universe Organization and promised to connect with diverse communities across the United States.

In her statement, Voigt said she was proud of her work with Smile Train, a nonprofit that provides corrective surgery for children with cleft lips and palates, as well as her advocacy for anti-bullying, dating violence prevention and immigration rights and reform.

"Eternal gratitude fills my heart when I think about the platform I was given to make a difference, the feeling of achieving a lifelong dream, and connecting with people all over the world, just as I said I would do on the Miss USA stage,” she wrote.

While proud of her experience and impact within the organization, Voigt expressed on Monday the importance of prioritizing herself as she takes on this next chapter.

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Voigt's parting message is a powerful reminder of the importance of self-care. "Never compromise your physical and mental well-being. Our health is our wealth," she emphasized, setting a new standard for future titleholders.

She will continue to inspire many to take better care of themselves and what is a step back on paper, can be a massive step forward for her and many others to live their best lives.