Beauty Queens Step Down
Miss Teen USA UmaSofia Srivastava gave up her crown on Wednesday just two days after Miss USA resigned.
Srivastava explained that she had been contemplating this decision for months and decided to resign because her "personal values no longer fully align with the direction of the organization." She did not elaborate on which values were in conflict.
"At the end of the day, I am so fortunate to have had this experience, and even if this is just a chapter, I believe that the story of my life will be truly remarkable," Srivastava shared on Instagram.
Miss USA Noelia Voigt, who was crowned in 2023, also stepped down on Monday, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing mental health in a social media post.
"I believe that this is just the start of a new journey for me, and I hope to continue inspiring others to stay strong, focus on mental well-being, speak up for themselves and others, and embrace the future without fear, even when it seems uncertain," Voigt expressed.
Miss USA expressed gratitude to Voigt for her service and extended best wishes for her future endeavors.
"We respect and support UmaSofia's decision to step down from her duties," the Miss Teen USA Organization said in an Instagram post. "The well-being of our titleholders is a top priority."
Voigt on Wednesday commented on Srivastava's announcement.
"I LOVE YOU! So proud of you my angel," Voigt wrote.
Srivastava was crowned in September of last year. The organization said she was the first Mexican-Indian Miss New Jersey Teen USA. In a Wednesday Instagram post, Miss Teen USA wished Srivastava the best and thanked her for her service in the role.
"We respect and support UmaSofia's decision to step down from her duties," Miss Teen USA said. "The well-being of our titleholders is a top priority."
Officials are reviewing plans for the transition of the Miss USA and Miss Teen USA responsibilities to a successor. A new Miss USA and Miss Teen USA will be crowned soon.
The resignations of Miss USA and Miss Teen USA come just days after the Friday resignation of Miss USA social media director Claudia Michelle. She shared her decision to step down on Friday, saying "I don't believe in taking sides, I believe in telling the truth."
"I feel the way current management speaks about their titleholders is unprofessional and inappropriate; I disavow workplace toxicity and bullying of any kind," she wrote.
The Miss USA Organization expressed concerns regarding the "false accusations" as reported by USA TODAY.
"Miss USA is dedicated to creating a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment, and we treat these allegations with seriousness," stated the organization to USA Today. "We are committed to prioritizing the well-being of all individuals associated with Miss USA."
