Guatemala Shines as Raschel Paz Reaches the Top 30 at Miss Universe 2025
Guatemala celebrates as Raschel Paz secures a historic spot in the Top 30 Miss Universe 2025 — the country’s best result in 15 years.
The night of November 20 marked a milestone for Guatemala, as Raschel Paz secured a coveted spot in the Top 30 Miss Universe 2025, ending a 15-year absence from the semifinal rankings. While Mexico’s Fátima Bosch claimed the crown in Thailand, the moment resonated deeply across Guatemala for its symbolic and historic weight.
Raschel Paz Makes History for Guatemala
Expectations were high for the Guatemalan delegation during the global broadcast. Although Raschel Paz was not announced among the first 15 semifinalists, excitement quickly followed when she was confirmed as part of the Top 30.
This achievement positions her as the first Guatemalan representative to advance to a Miss Universe semifinal round since 2010, the year Jessica Scheel reached the Top 10. For many viewers, Raschel’s performance revived national pride and reaffirmed Guatemala’s presence on the international stage.
A Journey Marked by Discipline, Culture and Stage Presence
Crowned Miss Universe Guatemala 2025 in July, Raschel Paz embarked on months of rigorous preparation to represent her country with distinction. Her dedication was evident throughout the competition.
During the National Costume segment, Raschel showcased a design inspired by Quetzaltenango. The look incorporated meaningful details, including Maya symbols embroidered onto the jacket, crescent-moon buttons, and boots painted with the musical notes of Luna de Xelajú.
In the preliminary competition, she demonstrated elegance and confidence in both swimsuit and evening gown rounds. Her opening introduction during the live final, delivered proudly with the name of Guatemala, was celebrated by fans across the country.
Upon being announced in the Top 30, she returned to the stage for the swimsuit round, reinforcing her strong performance. Although she did not advance to the Top 12, her participation was widely regarded as historic and deeply inspiring for the nation.
Guatemalan Women Who Have Shined at Miss Universe
Raschel now joins a distinguished group of Guatemalan contestants who have earned international recognition at Miss Universe:
Semifinalists:
- 1955: María del Rosario Molina Chacón – Top 16
- 1984: Ilma Julieta Urrutia Chang – Top 10
- 2010: Jessica María Scheel Noyola – Top 10
Special Awards:
- 1975: Emy Elvia Abascal – Best National Costume
- 1989: Helka Lisbeth Cuevas Berganza – Second Place in National Costume
- 2012: Laura Beatriz Godoy Calle – Miss Congeniality
- 2024: Ana Gabriela Villanueva – Gold Award, Voice for Change, for a social project focused on combating child malnutrition
Raschel Paz’s achievement adds a new chapter to this legacy, inspiring future representatives and reaffirming the country’s growing presence in global pageants.
