A Journey of Determination and Grit
Lisbeth Valverde Brenes, a 28-year-old dynamo, is making waves as a notable candidate for Miss Costa Rica. Her rise from modest beginnings is a testament to her unwavering resolve. In her earlier days, she hustled, selling empanadas and raffle tickets, to fund her participation in beauty contests.
Inspirational Foundations
Lisbeth often reminisces about her mother’s unparalleled work ethic, juggling four jobs, yet always emphasizing the importance of living purposefully. Her mother’s wisdom, “The economy is transient, doors are always there,” became the guiding principle for Lisbeth. Heeding this advice, she has carved multiple paths for herself.
A Multifaceted Achiever
Lisbeth’s resume is a blend of passion and purpose. She embraced her calling as a special education teacher and went on to establish a foundation aimed at enhancing life skills. Further broadening her horizon, she co-initiated a travel agency with her partner, launched a swimsuit business, and fervently advocated for a wildlife refuge.
Eyes on the Crown
Having already graced the stage of ten beauty contests, Lisbeth is now channeling her energy towards the Miss Costa Rica title. Winning the crown isn’t just about the accolade for her; it’s about amplifying her advocacy for youth empowerment, disability support, intentional living, and environmental consciousness.
The Road to Miss Universe
The triumphant Miss Costa Rica will carry forward the nation’s pride to the Miss Universe pageant, scheduled for November 18th in El Salvador.
Lisbeth Valverde Brenes Crowned Miss Costa Rica 2023
Triumph Amidst a Groundbreaking Event
In a momentous turn of events, 28-year-old Lisbeth Valverde Brenes claimed the title of Miss Costa Rica 2023. This competition distinguished itself as one of the most inclusive in recent memory, embracing a flexible height requirement and welcoming a young mother among its contestants.
A Dream Realized
Valverde’s coronation on August 16th marked the culmination of over a decade of her dedication to beauty pageants. “I’m overwhelmed with gratitude. Every day has been a fight, coming from a low-income background, I never thought I’d achieve this,” she expressed post-crowning, aspiring to inspire young dreamers.
Celebrating Diversity and Breaking Barriers
Among the top finalists were Natalia González and historic contestant, Yoselyn Porras – the first married woman with a child to compete in Miss Costa Rica. The event spotlighted diverse backgrounds, with participants emphasizing various causes from health awareness to the importance of the Costa Rican Sign Language.
Dazzling Rewards for the Winner
As the reigning Miss Costa Rica, Lisbeth was adorned with a Swarovski crystal-encrusted silver crown symbolizing ocean waves, a creation by designer George Bakkar. Her victory also brought a brand-new car, ¢3 million in cash, a collection of shoes, evening gowns, dental and dermatological care, and more.
A Night to Remember
The grand finale at the Marco Picado Studio showcased participants dressed in shimmering dark outfits, contrasting brilliantly with the stage’s forest-themed projections. With polished walks and radiant smiles, the contestants were the center of attention. After initial appearances, a crucial segment followed: answering judges’ questions on personality and cause representation. The esteemed jury, which included Miss France 1993 Véronique de la Cruz, singer Rodolfo González, and marketing expert Diana Bonell, evaluated their answers.
Participants spoke fervently about their inspirations and advocacies. For instance, Francella Mena, who joined the competition with relaxed height requirements, emphasized inner worth over physical attributes. Yoselyn Porras, championing women’s empowerment, emphasized that limitations only exist in the mind.
Lisbeth Valverde shared insights from her special education teaching experience and aced the segment. A high-energy swimsuit round followed, with Valverde once again leading the scoreboard. The evening gown segment was a sight to behold, featuring glittering, feathered, pastel, and metallic dresses with contestants exuding confidence.
Amidst the excitement, outgoing Miss Costa Rica, Fernanda Rodríguez, delivered a moving speech against fast fashion and its environmental consequences. The suspense reached its zenith with the announcement of the top five and subsequently the top three. In the end, the radiant blonde, Lisbeth, was crowned, marking a triumphant close to the event.
