Two days after Miss USA, Indian-origin Miss Teen USA resigns
What's the story
Just two days after the surprise relinquishing of her coveted title by Miss USA Noelia Voigt, UmaSofia Srivastava, the current Miss Teen USA, announced her resignation on Wednesday.
Srivastava cited a divergence of personal values with the organization's direction as her reason for leaving but did not provide more concrete details.
The 17-year-old, in a statement shared on Instagram, added that she will continue her advocacy for "education and acceptance."
Grateful departure
Miss Teen USA expressed gratitude despite resignation
"After months of grappling with this decision, I have decided to resign from the title of Miss Teen USA 2023. After careful consideration, I have decided to resign as I find that my personal values no longer fully align with the direction of the organization," Srivastava's statement read.
She added, "At the end of the day, I am so lucky to have had the privilege of this experience."
"I know that the story of my life will truly be incredible."
Educational pursuits
Future: She will focus on education post-resignation
Srivastava, who made history as the first Mexican-Indian Miss New Jersey Teen USA, plans to focus on her education following her resignation.
"While this was certainly not how I saw my reign coming to a close, I am excited to continue my advocacy for education and acceptance, start applying to colleges, and share some exciting new projects on That's Fan Behavior (her blog)."
Srivastava added, "I will continue my relentless advocacy for education and acceptance."
Mental health advocacy
Miss USA's departure was due to mental health concerns
Voigt, who resigned as Miss USA on Monday, used social media to promote mental health awareness.
She expressed optimism about her future, stating, "Deep down I know that this is just the beginning of a new chapter for me and my hope is that I continue to inspire others to remain steadfast, prioritize your mental health, advocate for yourself and others by using your voice, and never be afraid of what the future holds, even if it feels uncertain."
Supportive stance
Miss USA Organization supported titleholders' decisions
The Miss USA Organization expressed support for both Srivastava and Voigt's decisions.
In response to Voigt's resignation, they stated, "We respect and support Noelia's decision to step down from her duties."
They reiterated similar sentiments following Srivastava's announcement, emphasizing that the "well-being of their titleholders" is a top priority.
Voight also backed Srivastava, commenting, "I LOVE YOU! So proud of you my angel."
Srivastava was crowned in September 2023.
Denying allegations
Meanwhile, Miss USA Organization refuted allegations of workplace toxicity
The back-to-back resignations of Miss USA and Miss Teen USA notably follow the departure of Claudia Michelle, the Miss USA social media director, due to allegations of workplace toxicity and bullying.
However, the Miss USA Organization, while talking to USA TODAY, denied these claims, expressing their commitment to a "safe, inclusive, and supportive environment."
They also stated that they take such allegations seriously and are currently reviewing plans for a smooth transition of responsibilities to the successors.