In a recent development that has stirred the pageant industry, Noelia Voigt and UmaSofia Srivastava, holders of the Miss USA and Miss Teen USA titles respectively, have resigned from their positions. Voigt stepped down citing health issues, while Srivastava announced her resignation on Instagram, pointing to a misalignment with the organization’s values. Srivastava’s announcement came just two days after Voigt’s departure.

These resignations have cast a spotlight on the Miss Universe Organization (MUO), with both ex-titleholders and former staff alleging a toxic work environment. Concerns have been raised about workplace bullying, harassment, and professional misconduct. Claudia Michelle, a former social media director for Miss USA, accused the organization of suppressing personal advocacies and not addressing titleholders’ mental health adequately.

Additionally, there have been claims about the organization failing to meet financial obligations, micromanagement, and unprofessional behavior by the management towards the titleholders. These issues are not new to the MUO, which has previously faced accusations regarding the integrity of its competitions.

In response to the resignations, Laylah Rose, the chief executive of Miss USA and Miss Teen USA, stated a commitment to celebrating and empowering women, although specific future plans remain undisclosed. Meanwhile, the organization has seen changes in its approach to managing social media content shared by pageants’ winners.

These events have sparked discussions within the pageantry community, with many calling for increased transparency and reform in how the MUO operates.