Colombian beauty queen triumphs with focus on education and culture.

The search for the globe's newest beauty queen has concluded in Japan, with Colombia’s Catalina Duque taking home the coveted crown. Emerging victorious over 79 other contestants, Duque was named the Miss International 2025 winner during a glittering grand finale held on November 27. She takes over the reign from her predecessor, Vietnam's Huỳnh Thị Thanh Thủy, marking a significant victory for Colombia on the international stage.

While Duque impressed judges throughout the preliminary rounds with her poise and distinct social mission, it was the final Question and Answer segment that truly sealed her victory. When asked to explain her experience at the pageant to her family, she delivered a thoughtful and culturally resonant response.

Duque referenced the Japanese philosophical concept of "Mono no aware," which highlights the beauty found in fleeting, transient moments. She spoke eloquently about appreciating simple joys—like the changing autumn leaves or sharing a meal—illustrating a depth of character that resonated with the audience and judges alike.

More Than Just a Beauty Queen

Beyond the glamour of the stage, the new Miss International 2025 winner is a dedicated advocate for female empowerment. Her primary social cause revolves around education and leadership development for young girls. She aims to help young women build self-worth based on their intellect and character rather than physical appearance.

To further this cause, she created a picture book titled "The Golden Queen: More Than Beauty." This interactive project uses visual storytelling to teach children about kindness, empathy, and emotional intelligence, encouraging the next generation to become compassionate leaders.

Professional Accomplishments

Duque brings a strong professional background to her new role. She holds a degree in Social Communication with a focus on Digital Marketing and is multilingual, speaking Spanish, English, and Portuguese fluently. Before her win, she worked in corporate communications at Cementos Argos.

She also utilizes modern media to spread her message as the host of "The Golden Club" podcast. Through this platform, she interviews innovators and disruptors, sharing stories intended to inspire listeners to create positive changes in their own communities.

With her combination of corporate experience, advocacy work, and cultural sensitivity, Catalina Duque is set to be a transformative figure during her reign.