Nicaragua has a new beauty queen. Jasmine Chola has officially been crowned Miss Universe Nicaragua 2026, beginning her journey toward one of the biggest stages in international pageantry.
The 27-year-old model was introduced and crowned during a gala at the InterContinental at Doral Miami, where special guests, members of the media, sponsors, beauty queens and entertainment personalities gathered to celebrate the start of a new chapter for Miss Universe Nicaragua.
© Michel Suárez AgencyChola, who is originally from Kukra Hill in Nicaragua’s South Caribbean region and currently lives in the United States, will now prepare to represent Nicaragua at the 75th Miss Universe competition, scheduled to take place in Puerto Rico in November.
Who Is Jasmine Chola, Miss Universe Nicaragua 2026?
Jasmine Chola brings extensive modeling experience to her new role. The 27-year-old has worked as a professional model, building a résumé that includes runway shows, commercial campaigns and professional photo shoots.
Standing approximately 5 feet 11 inches tall, Chola is also no stranger to connecting with an audience. She has built a substantial social media presence, with more than 400,000 followers on Instagram.
© Michel Suárez AgencyNow, her focus turns to representing Nicaragua internationally.
As Miss Universe Nicaragua 2026, Chola will have the opportunity to showcase the country's beauty, traditions, cultural diversity and identity while competing alongside contestants from around the world.
Her coronation also comes at an important moment for Nicaragua's pageant history following the country's historic Miss Universe victory in 2023.
© Getty ImagesJasmine Chola’s Miss Universe Nicaragua 2026 Coronation
Chola’s crowning was the centerpiece of an elaborate celebration in Miami that blended beauty, fashion, music and Nicaraguan culture.
The evening began with a welcome cocktail reception and red carpet arrivals before guests moved into the main gala.
© Michel Suárez AgencySeveral recognizable names from television, entertainment and international pageantry attended the celebration, including Sheynnis Palacios, Jessica Carrillo, Miss Universe 2024 Victoria Kjær Theilvig and Prince Julio César.
Telemundo presenter Carlos Adyan hosted the event alongside Venezuelan model and beauty queen Ileana Márquez.
Nicaraguan Culture Takes Center Stage
The gala opened with a symphonic performance accompanied by contemporary dance and visual imagery inspired by Nicaragua's landscapes. Music was also an important part of the celebration, with Nicaraguan artist Luis Pastor taking part in the program.
Grupo Azul presented a performance inspired by El Güegüense, one of Nicaragua's most recognizable cultural traditions. The theatrical work is deeply connected to the country's history and national identity, making its inclusion a fitting addition to an event centered on representing Nicaragua internationally.
Fashion Takes Over the Miss Universe Nicaragua Gala
Of course, a major pageant event would not be complete without fashion. Designers Gianina Azar and Daniel Fábregas were featured in runway presentations during the gala.
Former Nicaraguan beauty queens also participated in a special presentation honoring the pageant's history. One of the night's most significant moments came when Itza Castillo made her final walk as Miss Universe Nicaragua 2025 before officially passing the title to Chola.
© Getty ImagesThe ceremonial handover marked the end of Castillo's reign and the beginning of Chola's year as Nicaragua's representative.
Sheynnis Palacios Honored During the Gala
Another memorable moment was dedicated to Sheynnis Palacios, whose Miss Universe victory remains a milestone for Nicaragua. Palacios made history in November 2023 when she became the first woman from Nicaragua to win the Miss Universe crown.
Her achievement transformed Nicaragua's place in international pageantry and made her a prominent figure among Latino pageant fans around the world.
© MARVIN RECINOSThe tribute recognized her historic accomplishment and continued impact as a source of pride for Nicaragua and the wider Latino community.
