Olivia Culpo

By Katie Jackson The stunning Miss Colombia Paulina Vega has been crowned Miss Universe 2014, with Miss USA Nia Sanchez as the runner-up. Vega blew away the panel of celebrity judges, including Kristin Cavallari, Emilio Estefan, DeSean Jackson, Lisa Vanderpump, William Levy, Manny Pacquiao, Nina Garcia, Giancarlo Stanton, Rob Dyrdek, and Louise Roe with her talents, charisma, intelligence, and obvious beauty. Taking place at the Florida International University Arena, the 63rd Annual Miss Universe Pageant began with each contestant greeting the judges and audience in lavish costumes representing each of their countries. Then, almost immediately after, the beauties were whittled down from 88 to just 15. The contestants strutted their fabulous figures in the bikini round, and were quickly narrowed down to the top 10. The remaining ladies stunned in evening gowns ranging from silver and sparkling to red and daring. Throughout the pageant, unforgettable live performances were put on by Prince Royce, Gavin DeGraw, and Nick Jonas who had audience members and viewers swooning when he walked off the stage to serenade girlfriend Olivia Culpo in the audience with his smash hit “Jealous.” Culpo, who was Miss Universe 2012, was Jonas’s muse behind the song. After the top 5 were announced, Miss Jamaica, Miss Ukraine, Miss Netherlands, Miss USA, and Miss Colombia moved on to the question and answer round. Though all the contestants gave wonderful answers, it was Vega that came out on top. During the nerve-racking Q&A, Vega completely wowed the judges, especially when answering what she thought Colombia had contributed to the world. “I believe that my country has been an example to be followed for the rest of the countries,” she said. “We are preserving people, and we continue fighting. Today, we are world leaders in many different parts.” After she was announced the winner, Vega was crowned by Miss Universe 2013 Grabriela Isler with the $300,000 topaz and sapphire studded headpiece. Vega is the first winner to wear the stunning new New York City-skyline inspired crown designed by DIC. Immediately after the pageant, Vega and Miss Universe owner Donald Trump answered questions during a press conference held at the Trump National Doral. Vega beamed as she told press that she will wear the crown with “pride and excitement.” When asked what his biggest piece of advice was for Vega, Trump answered, “she has to remain grounded.” For more on Miss Universe 2014 Paulina Vega, visit missuniverse.com