Miss Universe BVI showered with love and praises

Miss Universe BVI Olivia Freeman returned home to loud cheers and a wave of community pride on Monday, touching down after what she described as an “amazing” but challenging Miss Universe 2025 experience in Thailand.

Freeman, who represented the BVI on the global stage last week, told supporters gathered at the welcome ceremony that despite the pressure and drama surrounding this year’s pageant, the experience was unforgettable.

“It was an amazing experience,” she said. “I met a lot of great young ladies… and I know most of you know my new best friend, Miss Angola. We now have a friend all the way in Africa.”

Her return comes on the heels of a tense and highly scrutinised Miss Universe competition, marked by public complaints from several contestants, backlash over organisational issues, and online disputes about fairness and transparency. Throughout it all, Olivia was widely praised on social media for remaining composed and for delivering standout performances in both evening wear and swimwear — earning her commendations from fans across the Caribbean and beyond.

Local pageant organisers said the BVI community should be proud of how she handled the global spotlight.

“It was a difficult task… very, very difficult,” one organiser told the crowd. “But she withstood all of the challenges and embraced all of the victories. We are so proud. The support from the BVI community, the Virgin Islands community as a whole; just overwhelming. Thank you, thank you, thank you.”

Freeman also shared warm words for her fellow contestants, including Miss Universe Jamaica, who remains in hospital after a serious fall during the competition. “I hope she pulls through and gets to go back home and enjoy her family like I’m enjoying mine right now,” she said.

Addressing the controversies that overshadowed parts of the pageant, Freeman acknowledged the noise but insisted she stayed centred on her goal.

“There was a lot of controversy from the beginning that tried to throw us off,” she said. “But the other contestants and I tried to push through and enjoy the experience… even when more controversies came up along the way. Thank you, BVI, because you played a huge part in me staying disciplined, consistent, and focused on what was truly important — representing the British Virgin Islands.”

As she wrapped up her remarks, an emotional supporter told her: “Just seeing you on that stage brought tears to my eyes… You taught them how to slay BVI-style. We see the best for you in your future.”

Freeman said she now plans to rest, spend time with family, and reflect on the journey: “I am very happy and enjoyed the experience I had.”