Miss Teen USA 2023, UmaSofia Srivastava, has decided to step down from her title less than eight months after making history by winning it. Her resignation follows closely after Miss USA 2023 Noelia Voigt also announced her resignation.
On May 8, Srivastava took to Instagram to explain her decision, noting that her personal values no longer align with the organization’s direction, as reported by People magazine. She announced, “After months of careful consideration, I have chosen to resign from the title of Miss Teen USA 2023.” She expressed gratitude for the support she received from her family, state directors, sister queens, and fans, reflecting fondly on her experience representing New Jersey as a first-generation Mexican-Indian American.
Srivastava, who authored the multilingual children’s book ‘The White Jaguar,’ pledged to continue her advocacy work for education and acceptance through The Lotus Petal Foundation and the Bridge of Books Foundation. She emphasized that her true purpose lies in her charitable work and the impact her book has had on children and adults alike.
Following her announcement, the Miss Teen USA organization wished her well and stated that a new title-holder would be announced soon. They expressed respect and support for her decision, emphasizing the importance of the well-being of their titleholders.
Srivastava made history last fall as the first Mexican-Indian Miss Teen USA. She shared her gratitude on social media, exclaiming, “Is this real??? I am so thankful and honored to be the first Mexican-Indian and the first New Jersey Miss Teen USA 2023!!!” She cherished the support she received from loved ones and acknowledged the special bond with her fellow contestants.
Her resignation follows shortly after Noelia Voigt, Miss USA 2023, also stepped down. Voigt announced her decision on May 6, citing the importance of prioritizing physical and mental well-being. She expressed that her journey as Miss USA was meaningful but ultimately made the tough decision to resign for her mental health.
Both resignations highlight the personal challenges and pressures faced by titleholders in the pageant world, emphasizing the importance of aligning personal values and well-being with professional commitments.
