In November 2025, Thailand welcomed the world's most beautiful women for the Miss Universe finale. That year’s edition of the pageant, which was not without its share of controversy, ended with the crowning of Mexico’s Fátima Bosch. The experience in the Asian country was unforgettable not only for the winner, but also for one contestant in particular.
While taking part in the competition’s challenges, she was quietly keeping a very special secret: she was pregnant. Jaime VandenBerg, Canada’s representative, has revealed that she was already expecting when she competed and placed among the Top 30.
© Mohan RajThis week, Miss Canada 2025 surprised many by announcing her pregnancy on social media, sharing that she had already been expecting when she competed in the Miss Universe final. “From the Miss Universe stage… to my third trimester getting the car seat and stroller ready,” Jaime wrote on her Instagram account, reflecting on the dramatic changes in her life over the past few months and sharing glimpses of both moments.
“What the world didn’t know: I was 16 weeks (four months) pregnant when I competed in the swimsuit competition and made the Top 30."
"Carrying a life while living a dream I once thought was impossible,” the Canadian beauty continued in her post. The revelation about how far along she was surprised many, as it was impossible to guess from the toned figure she displayed during the bikini segment. “Today, I feel free sharing this: I’m pregnant!” she added.
© Instagram @missjaimeyvonne“With the evolution of Miss Universe rules, I hope this moment shows that motherhood is not the end of ambition and that pregnancy is not a limitation. With a strong community supporting you, you can pursue your dreams at the same time,” VandenBerg reflected.
“What an honor it will be to be the first mother to reign as Miss Universe Canada,” concluded the Canadian beauty, who has shared a few glimpses on social media of her relationship with banker Aaron Hernández.
© Instagram @missjaimeyvonneMiss Universe Canada Considered Withdrawing Because of Her Pregnancy
Following the buzz generated by the news of her pregnancy, Jaime VandenBerg shared another message expanding on her journey to Miss Universe. “I entered @missuniversecanada to use my platform to share my story as a survivor of gender based violence, to inspire others to overcome adversity, empower them to speak their truth, and raise awareness about gender based violence,” she explained.
© Mohan Raj“After winning the title of Miss Canada and preparing to go to @missuniverse, I discovered I was pregnant and had to seriously think about what to do. Would I still be able to compete? Would I be too tired? How would society see it? Would I face negative reactions?” she said. “I seriously considered withdrawing. My support system encouraged me not to, and I’m so glad I listened.”
Jaime explained that in order to compete, she had to present a medical certificate confirming that she was in good health. “When I spoke with my doctor, he quickly explained that I was healthy and that pregnancy is not an illness. That simple statement gave me a new perspective,” she shared.
© Instagram @missjaimeyvonne“My lack of knowledge about pregnancy almost made me give up on my dream, but it’s true, women are incredibly strong, and pregnancy is a blessing, not an inconvenience or a disadvantage,” she said. “Making the Top 30 is a testament to women’s strength at any stage of life, whether overcoming violence or beginning a new chapter. Your circumstances do not define you; your perseverance, your kindness, and above all, the courage to raise your voice do.”
