Halima Hoy Celebrates Miss Universe Experience

Halima Hoy recently made Belize proud by representing the country at the Miss Universe pageant, an experience she described as life changing. This year’s competition broke barriers by introducing rule changes that allowed women from diverse walks of life to compete, shifting the focus from traditional beauty standards to celebrating women of substance and achievement. Hoy shared that the pageant had a different feel, with contestants not only exuding beauty but also bringing inspiring stories, accomplishments, and a passion for making a difference in their communities.

Halima Hoy, Miss Universe Belize 2024: “Before I went there, my organization prepped me well. Especially Destiny who has been through it before, she was able to tell me what I was expecting. So mentally I was prepared. So if I knew I had to get something done, I would do it the night before. So in the morning, it’s just about waking up, getting dressed, putting on your makeup, and the hair is already done, the clothes is already laid out. And then of course, taking on the day, making sure you eat healthy. I had my vitamins. I was hydrated. I had like a little hydration packet that helped with electrolytes and just staying prayed up, I have to have this say thanks to God because every day I was listening to some inspirational videos on YouTube and I was getting my mind mentally prepared for the day so that I can make the best out of it. I made it a point to scatter and to mingle with as many girls as I can. I didn’t want to clique up and stay with one group. I wanted to get out of my comfort zone and just try to learn about all the different countries and all the cultures and of course, making sure that I am building that rapport with as many of the Miss Universe Queens.”

Representing Belize, Hoy showcased the nation’s unique culture and values, highlighting the warmth, resilience, and strength of all women in the pageant. While she didn’t bring home the crown, she was left with an impactful lesson being reminded that true beauty lies in authenticity, intelligence, and purpose.

Halima Hoy, Miss Universe Belize 2024: “When you step into like I said again, I was fully prepared because I had read up about the values of this new organization and when you step into that complex, because we’ve practiced in this huge complex, and you start talking to some of these women you immediately know that these women are not only beautiful but they’re also intelligent and powerful. I spoke with doctors, lawyers, women who they……”

Ernesto Vasquez, Host, The Morning Show: They were in the pageant ? You had doctors and lawyers ? 

Halima Hoy, Miss Universe Belize 2024: “Yes, women who are activists in their country and we had the opportunity to share about our advocacy and there were women who had these incredible stories about what they endured and of course how they overcame it. So there’s nothing that women can’t do and I know that sounds cliche because we already know that but they really came with the stories to make you like, they’re like no when I’m telling you there’s nothing we can’t do, there’s nothing we can’t do. We have done it all. We have overcome so many adversities and we’re still here standing looking beautiful. Even though people think that it’s just a face we have these powerful stories that we share.”

 Hoy expressed that her journey has not come to an end and hopes her journey inspires young Belizean girls to embrace their individuality.