Laura Bircher, elected Miss Universe Switzerland 2024, will represent Switzerland this November 16 during the Miss Universe final in Mexico City. Aged 24 and originally from Nidwalden, the veterinary assistant (who has just left her job) won over the jury with her charisma and determination, standing out among 18 competitors during the national final last September in Bern.
However, behind the brilliance of the crown lies a journey strewn with personal challenges. A victim of school bullying due to her tall size and protruding ears, she went through dark periods of isolation and eating disorders. “I felt invisible, the being who was only noticed to torment him,” she confided to the Swiss German “Blick”, thus expressing the lasting stigma left by these painful experiences
Laura Bircher chose to run for Miss Universe with a mission beyond outer beauty: she wants to raise awareness about mental health, a subject that is deeply dear to her heart. “I want to show that every pain can be transformed into strength,” she explained. For her, this beauty pageant is not just about glamor, but an opportunity to serve as a role model of hope and resilience, especially for those going through difficult times.
His commitment to mental health is not just symbolic. Marked by her transformative four-month stay in Hawaii, the beauty queen discovered how to reconnect with herself and overcome her panic attacks and eating disorders. Back in Switzerland, she made the promotion of psychological well-being her priority, despite the personal trials she went through. “I wish to inspire even one person to overcome adversity, because that would be more precious than any crown,” she told the daily, reflecting her desire to use her voice beyond the stage
Switzerland is unfortunately not among the favorites in the Miss Universe predictions, but let’s hope that our candidate will surprise during her visit. France, Zimbabwe, Venezuela and even Thailand are expected to succeed Miss Nicaragua, Sheynnis Palacios, winner last year.
