Mia Dio, crowned as Miss Universe Cuba 2026, made an appearance on Telemundo's "Hoy Día" this Thursday to discuss her upcoming journey to Puerto Rico. She is set to compete in the 75th edition of the Miss Universe pageant on November 24th.
With a blend of excitement and determination, the Cuban-American beauty queen articulated her clear objective: "I'm prepared to compete in Puerto Rico and bring the first crown to my beautiful island of Cuba. We need that joy."
At 25, the pageant queen confirmed her departure for San Juan on November 8th, accompanied by her team and approximately 40 suitcases filled with outfits crafted with her stylist, Guillermo Leal. "We've curated designs from all corners of the globe to showcase universal creativity," she shared during the interview.
The Significance of Her National Costume
Mia Dio also revealed a highly anticipated detail about her national costume: it will be white and adorned with gladiolas. This choice is intentional, honoring the Ladies in White, a peaceful Cuban movement that emerged after the Black Spring repression.
Staying Grounded Amidst Pressure
When asked how she stays grounded amidst immense pressure, Mia Dio responded candidly: "The key is to remain true to my essence and purpose. I continue to engage with my personal circle, especially my parents, who keep me grounded. Additionally, attending church helps me a lot."
Balancing Multiple Roles
Discussing her greatest challenge in this journey, Mia noted the balance between her various roles: "Evolving without losing my identity. Many know me on social media as a humorous, genuine woman, and balancing my role as Miss and an influencer is crucial."
Her Social Cause
The Cuban representative also spoke about her social initiative, which evolved from "Cuerpos Conscientes" to The Her Project, aiming to provide visibility to women who have experienced pregnancy loss. "I bring visibility to women who are part of the one in four statistic, experiencing pregnancy loss as I did," she explained, emphasizing the importance of supporting women living with this silent, painful truth.
Reflecting on what she hopes people will remember about her post-pageant, she stated: "My authenticity, my personality, my humor. I am a woman who embraces all her versions and is comfortable in her own skin. I acknowledge that I don't have to be perfect to be worthy of chasing my dreams."
Mia Dio won the Miss Universe Cuba 2026 title on August 20th in Cutler Bay, Florida, outshining 18 other candidates. Born in Miami to a Cuban mother and an Argentine father, she is also the granddaughter of a veteran from the Brigade 2506. Her coronation sparked controversy due to her U.S. origin, to which she responded that her Cuban heritage and exile connections do not make her any less Cuban.
Cuba has never won a Miss Universe crown. The nation's best historical result was María Rosa Gamio Fernández's third-place finish in 1957. In a recent return to the competition, Lina Luaces reached the Top 12 in 2025. The grand finale of the 75th edition will take place on November 24th at the José Miguel Agrelot Coliseum in San Juan, featuring between 123 and 130 delegates from around the globe.
Frequently Asked Questions about Mia Dio at Miss Universe
When will Mia Dio compete in Miss Universe?
Mia Dio will compete in the Miss Universe pageant on November 24th, 2026, in Puerto Rico.
What is the significance of Mia Dio's national costume?
Mia Dio's national costume is white with gladiolas, honoring the Ladies in White, a peaceful Cuban movement.
What social cause does Mia Dio support?
Mia Dio supports The Her Project, which provides visibility to women who have experienced pregnancy loss.