Former Paraguayan beauty queen Nadia Ferreira Anthony is standing in support of Miss Universe Mexico, Fátima Bosch, following the contestant’s tense, viral encounter with Miss Universe Thailand director Nawat Itsaragrisil. The Mexican contestant has received widespread praise for the way she handled the incident - and now, Ferreira is adding her voice to those applauding Bosch’s composure and courage.
On November 5, Nadia attended the 12th Annual Changing Lives, Building Dreams Gala hosted by the Maestro Cares Foundation, alongside her husband, Marc Anthony.
The event, held at Cipriani Wall Street in New York City, brought together numerous celebrities and media outlets. During her press interviews, the Paraguayan model was asked about the controversy between Bosch and Nawat, who serves as director of Miss Universe Thailand. “I think Miss Mexico did really well,” Nadia told El Gordo y La Flaca (Univision). “She’s using her voice, and I think she’s an example too.”
Bosch gained global attention after video clips showed her responding calmly and respectfully to Nawat’s rude behavior during the sashing ceremony.
Many viewers applauded her for standing up for herself with dignity - including former Miss Universe titleholders and fans worldwide.
“Miss Universe is a platform where women have a voice - they represent and serve as examples for so many women and people,” Ferreira continued. “She did a great job. I hope everything gets resolved.” When asked if she had ever faced a similar situation during her time in the pageant, Ferreira replied, “Fortunately, my experience was very beautiful and happy.”
Nadia, who represented Paraguay in the 70th edition of Miss Universe held in Eilat, Israel, made history as the first runner-up, the highest placement ever for her country.
Miss Universe fallout
Meanwhile, fallout from the incident continues. Raúl Rocha, co-owner and president of the Miss Universe Organization, issued a statement expressing full support for Bosch and all contestants, announcing that Nawat’s participation in the upcoming 74th edition of Miss Universe will be “very limited or none.”
Rocha also confirmed that legal and corporate actions will be taken against Nawat, condemning his “malicious acts.” “We will not allow a single person to cause harm or shatter the dreams of so many women who traveled from around the world to be here,” he said.
Fátima Bosch’s calm and empowered response, and the strong show of solidarity from figures like Nadi, highlight a growing movement within the pageant world toward respect, accountability, and women using their voices with strength and grace.