This Wednesday, Lina Luaces will pass on her Miss Universe Cuba crown, and she has already decided her next move: returning to college to continue her economics degree, which she paused during her reign.
The daughter of television host Lili Estefan shared her future plans on Univision's "El Gordo y la Flaca," where she reflected on a period she described as both exhausting and transformative.
"I paused my studies for the pageant, but I always assured my mom and dad, 'I swear I will go back to school.' Last year was overwhelming with so much to do, but I've always emphasized, even in my final response at Miss Cuba night, that my education is my top priority. So that's where my focus will be now," the young woman stated.
In addition to resuming her studies, Lina hinted at several professional projects that have her "very excited," though she remains tight-lipped about specifics. "In about six months, it'll be ready," she teased enthusiastically.
Before contemplating her future, Lina took time to recover from the hectic pace of the pageant. After the Miss Universe 2025 competition held last November in Thailand, she sought a Catholic retreat to reconnect with her spirituality and those closest to her.
"The word is noise because it was so many months filled with adrenaline. I wanted to get back to basics because I hadn't seen my family for a year, I hadn't seen my friends for a year, and I needed to take care of my mind, my health, especially with how intense social media was last year," she explained.
When host Raúl de Molina asked about the challenges of being in Thailand amidst the controversies surrounding that edition of Miss Universe, Lina didn't shy away: "Yes, absolutely, but I always like to focus on the positive. I feel that this year, women bonded more than in previous years. On my birthday, I celebrated with all of them, and we became incredibly close. Now I can say I have lifelong friends, which I never expected because everyone warns you to be cautious with women in beauty pageants. But these women are amazing."
Lina Luaces was crowned Miss Universe Cuba 2025 last July in Hialeah, Florida, and in November, she represented Cuba in the international competition, making it to the Top 12, the country's best result in the modern era of the contest.
The crown handover is scheduled for August 20 at the Miss Universe Cuba 2026 final, held at the Dennis C. Moss Cultural Arts Center in Cutler Bay, Miami. The winner will represent Cuba at Miss Universe 2026, with the grand finale taking place in November in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
Insights into Lina Luaces' Future Plans
What are Lina Luaces' plans after Miss Universe Cuba?
Lina plans to return to her economics studies at university and is also excited about several professional projects she will reveal in about six months.
How did Lina Luaces cope with the intensity of the pageant?
After the pageant, Lina took time for a Catholic retreat to reconnect with her spirituality and her loved ones, seeking to rejuvenate her mind and health.
How did Lina describe her experience in the Miss Universe pageant?
Lina mentioned that despite the challenges, she focused on the positive aspects, like forming close friendships with other contestants, which she cherishes deeply.