24-year-old Iris Salguero from San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye has become the first islander to claim the most prestigious title in beauty pageants: Miss Universe Belize. The proud San Pedrana was crowned as Miss Universe Belize 2021-2022 on Saturday, January 9th in Belize City.
The coronation took place at a small, socially distant sashing press conference. The new queen was announced shortly after 3PM, revealing Salguero as the 31st beauty ambassador to represent the Jewel at the international Miss Universe beauty pageant.
The pageant is expected to take place in the first quarter of 2021 in the United States of America. The pageant did not take place last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Salguero’s journey, struggles and goals
The island girl wearing the Miss Universe Belize crown has made the island shine again in the world of beauty pageants. Ambergris Caye has prided itself in producing excellent candidates in all types of disciplines, from sports to beauty ambassadors. Salguero thanks everyone who has supported her thus far. “This journey is not possible without you, and I know I can count on all of you to help me carry Belize in my heart wherever I go,” she wrote to her supporters.
Salguero’s story features the challenges faced at an earlier age, financing her own secondary school education and graduating as Salutatorian (2nd in her class). She now plans to earn a bachelor’s degree in digital marketing and hopes to open a trade school called ‘Brighter Future.’ Salguero dedicated two years at the SHINE, an organization helping girls ages 12-18 build self-esteem. As a survivor of an abusive relationship herself, one of her goals is to end violence against women and be the voice of those suffering in silence. She is determined to empower young Belizean women and overcome hardship and accomplish their dreams.
Pageant experience
In 2015, Salguero was crowned Miss San Pedro, and then went on to represent Belize in the 2016 Miss World Pageant. She also represented the country as Miss Earth in 2017 and Miss America Latina del Mundo in 2018.
Salguero has also worked alongside environmental organizations, as she is passionate about the environment. She has participated in several clean up campaigns, spreading awareness on the importance of protecting the natural resources of Belize.
In the meantime, the island beauty continues to work as a brand ambassador and model for local businesses owned by female entrepreneurs.
The San Pedro Sun joins the island community in congratulating Miss Universe Belize Iris Salguero, and we wish her the best in future endeavours.
