Following a dramatic accident that sidelined her from the most challenging segment of Miss Universe Latina, Cuban model Laura Pérez made a triumphant return to the runway. This time, she appeared barefoot, with a sprained ankle and a captivating smile that moved everyone during the reality show's final gala.
Cheered on by the audience and supported by the staff, Laura walked the evening gown round without shoes, exuding elegance and determination. Her return was not the end of her journey but merely a pause. Her gesture resonated both on and off stage as a symbol of strength, authenticity, and courage.
"Thank you to everyone who prayed for me and voted every day. I felt your support from here," the 26-year-old Cuban expressed on Instagram, sharing a photo in a wheelchair surrounded by flowers. "I'll be doing physical therapy for a few more days until I'm cleared, but I'll be with you soon. Long live Cuba!" she wrote, deeply touching her followers.
Having arrived in the United States just two years ago, Laura's journey has been anything but easy. Before shining on the runway, she worked as a waitress and in hotel cleaning. Additionally, she is a professional dancer. Despite living with lupus, a condition she has openly discussed, it hasn't deterred her from pursuing her dreams.
During the gala, Laura shared her personal experiences and her ambition to establish a foundation to support individuals with chronic illnesses. "Health is a right we all should possess," she stated with calm determination, eliciting heartfelt applause from the audience and her peers.
Though she didn't take home the crown, finishing as the third finalist, her participation in the program has granted her significant visibility. Her story has been covered by media outlets, influencers, and thousands of users, and her following continues to grow. Many already regard her as "the true winner of the competition."
From her current home in Florida, Laura emphasized that her goals extend beyond the contest: "I won't give up because I have a dream that's not just mine: it's for my country, for my family in Cuba, for those who watched me leave with a backpack full of hope and return as someone. I know God protected me last night, and I'm confident He will continue to do so, as He has since I left Cuba." With these words, she shone beyond the stage.
Understanding Laura Pérez's Journey and Impact
What challenges did Laura Pérez face before participating in Miss Universe Latina?
Before participating in Miss Universe Latina, Laura Pérez faced numerous challenges including working as a waitress and in hotel cleaning upon arriving in the United States. Additionally, she lives with lupus, a chronic condition, which she has not allowed to hinder her pursuit of dreams.
How did Laura Pérez's return to the runway impact the audience and the competition?
Laura Pérez's return to the runway, walking barefoot with a sprained ankle, moved the audience and was celebrated as a symbol of strength and determination. Her gesture was seen as inspiring both on and off the stage, earning her significant admiration and visibility despite not winning the crown.
What future plans did Laura Pérez express during the final gala?
During the final gala, Laura Pérez expressed her desire to create a foundation to support people with chronic illnesses. She emphasized the importance of health being a right for everyone, highlighting her commitment to broader goals beyond the competition.