Miss Intercontinental 2025 is Russia's Varvara Yakovenko

Varvara Yakovenko of Russia Crowned Miss Intercontinental 2025 in Egypt

Eighteen-year-old model Varvara Yakovenko outshined over 50 contestants to claim the prestigious Miss Intercontinental 2025 title during a glittering finale at the V Hotel Sahl Hasheesh.


A Historic Victory for Russia

On Thursday, January 29, the global beauty community turned its eyes to Sahl Hasheesh, Egypt, for the coronation of the 53rd Miss Intercontinental. Varvara Yakovenko made history as the fourth woman from Russia to capture the crown, succeeding the 2024 titleholder, María Cepero of Puerto Rico.

In addition to the main title, the teenage powerhouse dominated the special awards, taking home:

  • Miss Photogenic

  • Continental Queen of Europe

The Final Results: A Global Showcase of Talent

The competition featured a diverse array of finalists from across the globe. Following Yakovenko in the winner's circle were:

  • 1st Runner-up: Lorena Suárez Lara (Cuba)

  • 2nd Runner-up: Vanessa Natcha Wenk (Thailand)

  • 3rd Runner-up: Faidha Kassim Kivuyo (Tanzania)

  • 4th Runner-up: Christina Vanhefflin (Philippines)

  • 5th Runner-up: Kika Marques Das Neves (Ecuador)

  • 6th Runner-up: Brilliant Mukanda Maroko (Kenya)

The Top 12 was rounded out by standout representatives from Cameroon, Colombia, the USA, India, and Romania. Meanwhile, the Top 23 featured a strong lineup including Vietnam, Germany, Brazil, Spain, Macau, Mexico, Nigeria, New Zealand, the Netherlands, the Czech Republic, and the Slovak Republic.

"Beyond the Crown": An Emotional Reflection

Following her victory, Yakovenko took to social media to share the raw emotions behind her journey. Despite her poised performance on stage, she revealed the "internal struggle" required to reach the pinnacle of the pageant world.

"These words still sound unreal to me," Yakovenko shared. "They are followed by months of tension, sleepless nights, tears, doubts, and a huge internal struggle."

The new queen also emphasized the importance of sisterhood and character over mere aesthetics. "I am sincerely grateful to those girls who stayed by my side... In such moments it is especially clear who has real beauty—not only external. I walk forward with my head held high, understanding that the crown is not only about winning, but also about enduring."

As Miss Intercontinental 2025, Yakovenko will spend her reign traveling globally, advocating for cultural exchange and the diverse causes supported by the organization.