Miss Universe 2024 is set to take place in Mexico City on 16 November – and this year, for the first time in the pageant’s 72-year history, there will be a contestant from Macao.
Cassandra Chiu says she aims to leverage the platform to raise awareness about her hometown. The 23-year-old University of Macau graduate, who is of Macanese ethnicity, has been busy preparing for the big event, she says, with “classes for catwalk techniques, makeup application, and hair styling.”
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Chiu arrived in Mexico City on 29 October, carrying with her the hope and wishes of family, friends and her many followers in the SAR. She recently took time out to sit down with Macao News to talk about culture, clothes and catwalks.
When did you realize you could represent Macao in Miss Universe?
In July, I noticed that the [local Miss Universe] representatives were looking for contestants, and I decided to enter immediately. I saw this as a valuable opportunity to promote and develop Macao, especially since it was the first time our region would be represented.
I underwent several interviews. Two months later, I got the news that I had been chosen to represent Macao. Initially, I only shared this news with my family after I was selected, as I was uncertain about their support. Ultimately, they were all very encouraging.
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Once the announcement was made, many friends reached out to express their surprise at my participation, as few were aware that Macao could compete in Miss Universe.
What motivated you to sign up for Miss Universe?
I began watching Victoria’s Secret fashion shows with my aunt when I was around 8 to 9 years old. Eventually, I discovered Miss Universe and became captivated, following the competition each year.
I never imagined that Macao would have the opportunity to participate in Miss Universe – it feels like a person from Macao winning a Best Actor Oscar – so discovering that there was a chance was truly emotional for me.
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Regardless of the outcome, my hope is to raise awareness about Macao before a global audience. Macao people are frequently asked where Macao is and we have to answer that “It’s near Hong Kong.” Many people are unfamiliar with our green flag. I want to change that.
Given your mixed background, which aspect of Macao will you represent?
I believe my mixed heritage embodies the essence of Macao. I feel I represent the best of both cultures.
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When asked whether I identify more as Portuguese or Chinese, I always respond that I find balance in the middle. I may not fully identify as either, but that’s inconsequential, as I embrace the richness of both cultures. I take pride in my diverse background and in representing Macao, a truly unique place.
How do you prepare for the Miss Universe?
I traveled to Malaysia for a week for a photoshoot, followed by a trip to the Philippines for clothing selections. I’ve been meeting with public relations agencies in Hong Kong and enrolled in classes for catwalk techniques, makeup application, and hair styling. Since we will only have professional assistance with makeup and hair in the final days of our two-week stay in Mexico, it is essential for us to learn these skills beforehand.
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Regular gym workouts are part of my routine too, but my diet is not particularly strict. I’m mainly reducing sugar and spicy foods to avoid acne breakouts. I like Indomie [instant noodles] though, which I find hard to resist.
Are there any special preparations when it comes to your wardrobe?
I know one other Miss Universe contestant, from Singapore, and she told me that during the two weeks in Mexico, we’re expected to wear an outfit for breakfast, another for daytime activities, and one more for dinner. That’s three outfits each day, at least 42 outfits over the course of 14 days.
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For the three main competition events, I commissioned a designer [in the Philippines] to create grand costumes. Other clothing items will be rented and purchased.
Is it challenging to be the inaugural representative of Macao at Miss Universe?
The main stress includes time constraints and financial issues. I reached out to the Macao Government Tourism Office for sponsorship, but unfortunately did not receive a response. As a result, I now rely on my family for financial support.
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Regarding timing, I learned about my role as Macao’s representative quite late. There is a limited number of catwalk coaches available in Macao, which meant frequent trips to Hong Kong for training sessions, in addition to attending various other classes.
What did you do after graduating from college last year?
I pursued a career as a model and dancer.
During my first year in college, I became an influencer and began collaborating with magazines for photo shoots. This led to increased interest from photographers in Macao, which prompted my transition into modeling.
My modeling debut occurred in May 2021, when I worked with Dior. They were looking for models for a catwalk show and discovered me through an agency. I shared the runway with another female model who had a lot of experience, and the audience consisted entirely of VIPs, which made me quite nervous.
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Later on, I worked for Gucci and Louis Vuitton as a model too, but my experience with Dior remains the most memorable to this day.
What will happen next if you win Miss Universe?
I really haven’t thought about it. Typically, Miss Universe engages in global charity initiatives and participates in various events. If I were to win, my focus also would be on promoting Macao.
I had initially intended to pursue a master’s degree in education and become an English teacher, but I decided to pause those plans to compete in Miss Universe.
Who is your favorite Miss Universe?
Miss Universe 2015, Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach. She is Filipino, very beautiful, eloquent, and very humble. I also like last year’s Miss Universe, Sheynnis Palacios.
