Andrea Meza Has 40 Cousins and a Degree in Software Engineering — Meet the New Miss Universe

Miss Mexico Andrea Meza, an activist focused on women’s rights and inclusion, is the new Miss Universe. Her family and 40 cousins are definitely thrilled for her.

The coronavirus pandemic put the Miss Universe, an annual competition, on a year-and-a-half hiatus. On May 16, 74 women represented their countries in one of the most prestigious international beauty pageants globally and Andrea Meza won the title.

Miss Universe 2019 Zozibini Tunzi, Meza's successor, crowned her after she beat out Miss Brazil Julia Gama and Miss Peru Janick Maceta Del Castillo, runner-up, and second runner-up, respectively.

MEZA’S ROAD TO THE TTILE

Born in August 1994, Meza is a certified makeup artist and model proud for having earned a degree in software engineering, a male-dominant field of study.

Before winning the Miss Universe competition, Meza worked with the Municipal Institute for Women to help end gender violence. She’s also participated in charity associations to raise money for the oppressed in India, China, and Indonesia.

The 26-year-old model had such a hard time during her journey to the crown that she even considered giving up. It is important to point out that she had previously represented Mexico in the Miss World 2017 pageant but finished first runner-up.

To prepare for the Miss Universe competition, Meza spent a lot of time working hard and attending classes, but some days, she felt it was “too much.”

HAVING SECOND THOUGHTS

The new Miss Universe, who has 40 cousins and two sisters, pointed out that since she was so tired, she began doubting if she really wanted to live the life of a pageant queen.

She lost her job and had a hard time making ends meet [due to the pandemic].

Fortunately, Meza kept herself motivated by realizing that every worthy thing is challenging to get and required a lot of effort on her part.

Over time, Andrea Meza stopped doubting herself, accepted she needed to work hard to become the third Mexican Miss Universe, and promised herself to enjoy every moment of the competition. It all paid off.

STRUGGLING DUE TO THE PANDEMIC

Just like many other people around the world, the coronavirus pandemic changed Meza’s life overnight. She lost her job and had a hard time making ends meet.

Since Meza was already an independent woman, she didn’t want to return to her family’s home and rely on them. After a while, she realized it was the best decision she could have made given the circumstances.

For the new Miss Universe, surrounding herself with the people who love and support her made her see how powerful she was.

Thanks to her family, she learned how to ask for help and got inspired to launch her Andrea Meza Activewear line. Andrea Meza’s reported boyfriend, Diego Garcy, probably supported her, as well.

According to The Sun, Darcy is a model who made history after winning the first edition of Mister Supranational in 2016. He holds a degree in Business Administration and runs Diego Garcy Sports Wear.

At the moment, it is unclear how long they have been dating. What’s clear is that Andrea Meza will get involved in charity work worldwide while fulfilling the rest of her responsibilities as the new Miss Universe.

STEVE HARVEY’S ABSENCE

While most people paid full attention to the contestants, some wondered why Olivia Culpo and Mario Lopez replaced Steve Harvey as the show’s host.

On April 20, 2021, Harvey tweeted that he’d miss the Miss Universe but would return for the 70th edition. While neither the organization nor Harvey has shared a reason, the comedian has a lot on his plate nowadays.

Apart from hosting "Family Feud" and "Celebrity Family Feud" in the States, he’s also hosting game shows in Ghana and South Africa. Fortunately, Culpo and Lopez did a great job.