Cayman’s Raegan Rutty made waves in Mexico City for the 73rd edition of Miss Universe held 14-16 Nov., joining a record-breaking 130 contestants from around the globe who competed for the coveted crown and title.
The 22-year-old from East End was among the history-making firsts at this year’s competition, becoming the organisation’s first Olympic gymnast to participate.
Ultimately, Denmark’s Victoria Kjaer Theilvig, a 21-year-old animal protection advocate, was crowned winner, beating out Miss Nigeria at the grand finale. Miss Mexico placed third.
The organisation also announced four new continental queens: Peru’s Tatiana Calmell as Miss Universe Americas, Philippines’ Chelsea Manalo as Miss Universe Asia, Finland’s Matilda Wirtavuori as Miss Universe Europe and Middle East, and Nigeria’s Chidimma Adetshina as Miss Universe Africa and Oceania.
A voice for change
Although Rutty did not advance to the finals, she was selected as a silver finalist for the pageant’s ‘Voice for Change’ contest in which delegates use their powerful voices to promote social change.
In her contest entry video, ‘Breaking the Stigma: Opening up the Conversation on Mental Health and Suicide Awareness’, Rutty passionately highlighted mental health and suicide awareness, focusing on breaking the stigma surrounding the issues, and creating a supportive space for conversations that matter.
Through her advocacy, Rutty empowers people to seek help and supports local partnerships relating to mental health and suicide awareness.
In addition, Rutty was noticeably visible in the lead up to the grand event, chosen out of 10 delegates for a roundtable discussion to share how their stories have shaped them into the women they are today.
“One of the things I love most about pageantry is that it allows me to share my story,” Rutty shared in a social media post on the discussion.
“I spoke about the hardships I faced as a gymnast and how I used every ‘no’ as fuel to prove others wrong. I am grateful for the opportunity to motivate, inspire, and empower women around the world to pursue their dreams.
“Growing up in the Cayman Islands, opportunities were few and far between. Coming from a small country means working extra hard for everything. Although the Cayman Islands may be tiny, we are mighty. I want to show everyone that coming from a small country does not mean you can’t accomplish big things. Do not count the small countries out!”
Rutty was also selected for cultural exchanges, brand commercials and promotional tours across several Mexican cities.
Caymanian heritage at the forefront
Caymanians were beaming with pride as Rutty lit up on the runway in her national costume during the preliminary and national costume competitions on 14 Nov. The look, inspired by the iconic silver thatch palm, was designed by Caymanian fashion designer Martina Bodden of Sweet Threads.
Bodden explained that the costume, consisting of a headpiece adorned with national symbols, a flowing skirt, fitted bodice, belt and shoes, made use of fabrics and natural, local materials that embody Caymanian heritage.
“These include brightly coloured, lightweight fabrics and woven silver thatch palm leaves, inspired by the natural surroundings of the Cayman Islands,” she said.
“The costume is a wearable testament to the country’s beauty, character, people, and their resilience, weaving silver thatch palms from the west to the east. It is a blend of both artistry and symbolism, where each detail tells a part of a larger story —paying homage to this cultural legacy, reflecting the resourcefulness of the people and their connection to the natural environment.”
The silver thatch palm skirt, when opened, boasts a light green upper side and a silvery underside that shines particularly bright in the moonlight, much like the tree itself.
”The costume as a whole is more than just a representation of the silver thatch palm; it is a celebration of the Caymanian heritage, showcasing a key material used by early Caymanians for making ropes, roofing, clothing, and as a source of revenue,” Bodden said.
The preliminary competitions also saw Rutty grace the stage with confidence and poise in the swimwear and evening gown segments.
Miss Universe Cayman Islands National Director Derri Lee described Rutty as ambitious, intelligent, courageous, considerate, beautiful, kind and passionate.
“Raegan has broken barriers transcending from an Olympic athlete to a beauty queen and doing so gracefully,” she said.
“The days were long and very intense, but the determination she had in her journey to the Olympics, she brought with her to the Miss Universe pageant … I have no doubt that Raegan has left a lasting impression with the Miss Universe Organisation and hope that they will continue to embrace her as an ambassador. The Miss Universe Cayman Organisation is extremely proud of Raegan Rutty.”
Following the Miss Universe competition, Rutty shared in a social media post, “Little Raegan would be proud, and that is all that matters. This pageant journey has been truly transformational. I made history by being the first-ever Olympic gymnast to compete at Miss Universe. My goal was to represent my country with honor, pride, and love. I am proud to carry the Cayman Islands on my back. I put 1000% effort and attitude into everything I did. Thank you all for the endless love and support.”
Rutty noted, “Representing the Cayman Islands on the biggest stage in the universe is such an honor … I dedicated countless long days and nights, balancing hectic schedules and little sleep, to make my country proud. My goal was to show that with determination and resilience, we can accomplish anything, regardless of our background or origins.
“Through the Miss Universe pageant, I had the privilege of showcasing the Cayman Islands on the world’s biggest stage. I highlighted our vibrant culture and the warmth of our Cayman Kindness. It has been an incredible honor to serve as an ambassador for my country.”
Rutty returns to Cayman on 18 Nov.
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