Graphics by Krizza Enriquez [@kxxenriquez]
Andrea Rubio’s victory at Miss International once again affirmed the dominance of Venezuela in the world of beauty pageant. She is the embodiment of what makes Venezuela resilient despite the current sociopolitical and economic hardships. Her personal life on the other hand, is somehow a reflection of the ills that her country is suffering. Born in Caracas, Andrea Rubio was forced to move to Colombia to seek better and more stable future. Ironically, she returned to pursue her dream to become a beauty queen and represent her beloved nation in international pageantry.
Despite the chaotic situation in Venezuela, beauty pageants still thrive. Venezuelans are still a force to reckon with in major international pageants. After all, Venezuela is Venezuela. By winning the Miss International crown, Andrea Rubio successfully proved that point not just with a bang but with style and finesse.
