Filipino entrepreneur Josh Yugen acquires Miss Universe Denmark license
Filipino businessman and Xpedition Magazine owner, Josh Yugen, has officially taken over the license for Miss Universe Denmark.
"It's a brand new day—and the beginning of an exhilarating new era for Miss Universe Denmark! The House of Yugen, the global powerhouse behind some of the most groundbreaking and inclusive pageants in the world, has officially taken over the national license of Miss Universe Denmark," the announcement read.
This is Yugen's fourth Miss Universe license after Bahrain, Pakistan, and Egypt. He said that "the timing couldn't be more perfect" as the reigning Miss Universe, Victoria Kjær Theilvig, is from Denmark.
"Her triumph has placed Denmark in the global spotlight, and now the search begins for the woman who will carry on that powerful legacy at the 74th Miss Universe competition in Bangkok this November," the statement added.
In line with this, a new social media account was launched while the registration for this year's Miss Denmark contestants is underway.
"Under the visionary leadership of Josh Yugen, this year's edition promises a world-class selection process, elite training programs, and international exposure like never before."
It added, "Get ready, Denmark. The legacy continues—and the journey to Miss Universe 2025 begins now."
'Once-in-a-lifetime experience'
This comes after the Miss Universe Organization and the former Miss Denmark Team were allegedly unable to align on plans for the Miss Universe homecoming of reigning queen Victoria Kjær Theilvig.
Lisa Lents, the former president and national director of the Miss Denmark organization, who saw the historic win of Theilvig as Miss Universe 2024 and Nicklas Pedersen as Mr. World 2014, said in a statement that it will not be sending a representative to the Miss Universe 2025 pageant.
According to her, they will "focus on other inspiring systems, with the hope of achieving even greater heights in the future, conquering new crowns."
"Winning a grand slam pageant as a National Director and guiding a contestant to victory is a once-in-a-lifetime experience - an achievement that forever changes lives and leaves a lasting mark on history," Lents said.
She added, "I have been incredibly blessed to experience this twice: guiding Victoria Kjær Theilvig to become Miss Universe 2024, and Nicklas Pedersen to victory at Mr. World 2014. These moments not only brought pride to Denmark but also made us a part of history."
Lents said that these accomplishments testify to the organization's "dedication, passion," and her immense love for pageantry. She also thanked the organization's supporters.
"To everyone who has supported us on this incredible journey—from our contestants, sponsors, coaches, influencers, and supporters—thank you. Your love and encouragement have fueled our mission to empower and inspire women around the world," she said.
Ultimately, she affirmed that her vision to make a meaningful impact will continue as she looks forward to the new paths ahead confidently, knowing that the organization's legacy of empowerment and excellence will continue to flourish.
"We are immensely proud of Victoria, and it fills us with joy to see her now traveling the world as Miss Universe. She has become a shining star, making a meaningful impact and inspiring countless people with her grace, strength, and passion. Watching her grow into a true ambassador of hope and positivity has been one of the greatest honors of our journey."
"We wish the future MUDK license holder [the] best of luck & success," she concluded.
Theilvig won the 73rd Miss Universe pageant, marking a historic win for her country. This is the first time since 1957 that Denmark has landed in the top five of the competition, which took place on Sunday, Nov. 17 (Philippine time) in Mexico City.
She defeated 124 other contestants, including the Philippines' Chelsea Manalo, who finished in the Top 30 and was later hailed as Miss Universe Asia.
