The reigning Miss United States of America, Noelia Voigt, has resigned from her title, citing her mental health.
In a statement via her Instagram account, she acknowledged that her action may come as a shock to many but she hopes that her fans stick around with her as she writes the next chapter.
Her statement reads: “In life, I strongly value the importance of making decisions that feel best for you and your mental health. As individuals, we grow through experiencing different things in life that lead us to learning more about ourselves. My journey as Miss USA has been incredibly meaningful, representing Utah with pride, and later the USA at Miss Universe.
“Sadly, I have made the very tough decision to resign from the title of Miss USA 2023. I am grateful for the love and support of the fans, old and new, my family, my friends, my coaches, former state and local directors, and my darling beloved Miss Teen USA, UmaSofia. Lifelong friendships and connections that I had the opportunity to make along the way while attending different events, and competing at state pageants, Miss USA, and Miss Universe are invaluable things I will be forever grateful for. Every time someone asked me what my favourite part of being Miss USA was, I would always share with them how much I loved getting to work with Smile Train, being a fervent advocate for anti-bullying, dating violence awareness and prevention, immigration rights and reform, and shedding light on my roots as the first Venezuelan-American woman to win Miss USA. Never could I have imagined the journey that my childhood dream would take me on.
“Constant and consistent hard work and dedication all lead me to where I am today, and I hope that over the last seven years of competing in pageantry and sharing my journey with you all is something that inspires you to never give up on your dreams, whatever may be. Eternal gratitude fills my heart when I think about the platform I was given to make a difference, the feeling of achieving a lifelong dream, and connecting with people all over the world, just as I said I would do on the Miss USA stage. Deep down I know that this is just the beginning of a new chapter for me, and my hope is that I continue to inspire others to remain steadfast, prioritize your mental health, advocate for yourself and others by using their voice and never be afraid of what the future holds, even if it feels uncertain. How I wish I could hug all of you. I love you all with all my heart and always will. Peace and love, always”
Her post:
The organisation via its Instagram account #missusa thanked her for her time saying: “Thank you, Noelia, for your service as Miss USA. We wish you the best in this next chapter.
“We respect and support Noelia’s decision to step down from her duties. The well-being of our titleholders is a top priority, and we understand her to need to prioritize herself at this time. We are currently reviewing plans for the transition of responsibilities to a successor, and we will soon announce the crowning of the new Miss USA.”
Her mom, who appreciated her for prioritizing herself wrote: “As your mother, it has been a huge relief to see my Noelia’s personality restored. We are extremely proud of you for your selflessness in standing up for what is right while also prioritizing what is best for you. I observed how your personality changed and how your light faded. It broke our hearts. We are so happy today to see you being you again. Welcome home.”
Source: Instagram | noeliavoight | #missusa