After stepping down as president of the Miss Universe Organization (MUO) in 2023, Paula Shugart is back in the game as one of the members of the panel of jury in the inaugural competition of Miss Cosmo International.
The Vietnam-based pageant announced the news on Thursday on social media.
“Miss Cosmo 2024 is excited to announce Mrs. Paula Shugart as the first official judge for this year’s competition. Paula Shugart is renowned for her significant contributions to the beauty pageant industry and television production. She served as the president of the Miss Universe Organization, where she played a vital role in shaping the global pageant community,” the organization said in their post.
According to the Miss Cosmo International Organization, they look up to Shugart’s experience in its commitment to serving the community and participating in various causes that align with their standards in the organization.
“Madame Paula Shugart is also deeply committed to community service, actively participating in organizations such as Best Buddies, Breast Cancer Awareness, the Susan G. Komen Foundation, and Same Sky. With her extensive background and unwavering dedication to excellence, Paula Shugart’s involvement as a judge will undoubtedly elevate the standards of Miss Cosmo 2024, ensuring a fair and inspiring competition for all participants,” they said.
The organization also expressed its excitement for Shugart’s return to Vietnam for the pageant which will be held on October 5.
“Her positive relationship with our country and her previous experiences here have left a lasting impression. We look forward to her return and the valuable insights she will bring to this year’s event,” the organizations said.
Ahtisa Manalo was chosen to represent the Philippines in the inaugural Miss Cosmo coronation night in October, following her second runner-up finish in Miss Universe Philippines 2024.
Manalo has gained a following in the pageant scene after her first runner-up finish in Miss International 2018. She belongs to the batch of Binibining Pilipinas queens led by Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray.
