Four years ago, Nadia Ferreira was competing for the Miss Universe 2021 crown, a pageant that, due to the pandemic, was held in December that year.
Thanks to her effort, dedication, and beauty, the Paraguayan native was named first runner-up behind Harnaaz Sandhu, who succeeded Andrea Meza.
With the daily release of behind-the-scenes updates for this year's competition, Nadia has been feeling nostalgic and, with her more experienced eye, has revealed her three favorites to win the crown this Thursday.
During her appearance on Telemundo’s show 'Pica y se Extiende,' Marc Anthony’s wife began her top three with Nadia Mejía, Miss Universe Ecuador. “I think she’s gorgeous. I also see that she’s a very prepared woman. She speaks extremely well, has strong stage presence, and connects beautifully with the audience. I think she could easily take home the Miss Universe crown,” she said.
Her second choice is Veena Praveenar Singh, Miss Universe Thailand. “I think she’s stunning,” she said, agreeing with the show’s hosts. “She has competed in Miss Thailand several times and didn’t win. That means she’s more than prepared, and I think that shows. She is one of my top favorites.”
Nadia highlighted the beauty and preparation of Lina Luaces, Miss Universe Cuba, and the daughter of one of her good friends, Lili Estefan. “My dear Lina Luaces. I've witnessed her entire process, from the moment she was crowned Miss Cuba to what we are seeing today."
"You can clearly see her preparation and how important this is for her. She’s doing an incredible job. I think we can all notice her hard work,” the Paraguayan said. She also sent Lina a personal message praising her evolution. “You’re doing wonderfully,” she said, confident that the effort she has personally witnessed will pay off.
What about Miss Universe Paraguay?
After revealing the three candidates she believes could take home the crown, Nadia faced questions on social media for not including her compatriot, Yanina Gómez, Miss Universe Paraguay, in her top three.
In addition to having strong public support, Yanina is among the favorites to become the successor of Victoria Kjær Theilvig, an outcome viewers will witness live on Telemundo, with Jacky Bracamontes, Danilo Carrera, Carlos Adyan, and Jessica Carrillo hosting the big night.
The 74th edition of Miss Universe, broadcasting live from Thailand, will air on Telemundo across the United States and simultaneously on the streaming service Peacock. Viewers across Latin America can also enjoy the live broadcast on Telemundo Internacional at 7PM ET / 4PM PT.