Thailand’s Praveenar Singh named Miss Universe 1st Runner-Up

Miss Universe 2025 ended in Nonthaburi with Praveenar Singh finishing as first runner-up, marking a major moment for the Thai-Indian contestant who has competed for years to reach the global stage.

Also known by her Thai nickname, Veena, the 29-year-old has long carried her dual heritage with confidence.

Born in Chiang Mai on April 16, 1996, Veena has often spoken about the pride she takes in her multicultural identity.

Her rise in pageantry took time. She first entered Miss Universe Thailand in 2018, finishing as second runner-up.

Veena continued to push for the crown as she placed first runner-up in 2020 and second runner-up again in 2023.

She finally achieved her long-awaited victory in August 2025 when she won Miss Universe Thailand, representing Saraburi among 76 contestants.

The moment was made more symbolic as Miss Universe 2005 Natalie Glebova passed her the crown on stage.

Veena reflected on her journey by saying her perseverance “proves that if I do everything with the best intention and put in the hard work … I can achieve anything”.

The Miss Universe Thailand organisation highlighted her effort, stating that “true effort never betrays the heart that believes”, acknowledging the years she spent competing.

Her background extends beyond pageantry.

Veena received her degree in liberal studies from Thammasat University, showing ambitions that move into academic and professional fields outside pageantry.

She has also spoken about the importance of cultural identity, describing Thailand as a “melting pot of traditions”, and aims to promote the country through tourism and cultural diplomacy while representing it internationally.

Veena is also one of the few pageant winners to be married and divorced.

As Miss Universe Thailand 2025, she represented her country at this year’s Miss Universe pageant, where more than 100 contestants competed.

Mexico’s Fátima Bosch won the 74th Miss Universe crown, while Denmark’s Victoria Kjær Theilvig passed on the title during the grand finale.

It was a controversy-ridden event as two judges resigned, with one claiming that the organisers had fixed the outcome of the competition.

A Thai organiser had also publicly scolded Fátima in front of dozens of contestants, prompting her to walk out of an event.

After finishing first runner-up, Praveenar Singh posted a statement on Instagram:

“I gave everything I had on that stage, carrying the pride and honor of representing Thailand to the fullest.

“Today, I’m truly grateful to bring home the title of 1st Runner-Up for everyone in Thailand.”

“Even though I didn’t take home the crown I hoped for, I poured my heart and soul into every step of this journey.

“From here on, I will continue to fulfill the responsibilities that come with this honorable title, especially in creating meaningful impact and inspiring others through my project, SHERO, which I deeply believe in.

“I would also like to congratulate the new Miss Universe 2025, as well as all the incredible women in the Top 5.

“I admire each and every one of them, and the strength, grace, and power they brought to this stage.

“Thank you, truly, from the bottom of my heart.”