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Who would have thought that a local "bathing beauty" competition spearheaded by Catalina Swimwear in Long Beach, CA would metamorphose into an international annual tradition with countless young women around the world vying to become Miss Universe? As hundreds of millions of fans have watched in 125 different countries, the homegrown contest has evolved into a powerful, year-round, international organization that advances and supports opportunities for these role models.

Becoming what is now considered Universal royalty is still an obtainable dream for young women 50 years later. Today, Miss Universe has become a fixture of pop culture, ingrained in the landscape of our minds.

These women are savvy, goal-oriented and aware. The delegates who become part of the Miss Universe Organization display those characteristics in their everyday lives, both as individuals, who compete with hope of advancing their careers, personal and humanitarian goals, and as women who see to improve the lives of others. Currently, Miss Universe is experiencing a rebirth, playing a critical role in making the next 100 years "The Century of Women."