Miss Universe Bahrain Manar "Jess" Deyani is taking a stand at the Miss Universe 2021 pageant.
Instead of wearing conventional swimwear during the swimsuit competition, the 25-year-old aspiring fashion designer and beauty influencer wore a dark jumpsuit due to cultural and religious reasons. The ensemble featured three-quarter-length sleeves, as well as an animal print belt. Jess is the first-ever representative from Bahrain to join Miss Universe.
Recently, Jess was the target of online bullying after a photo went viral of her standing beside other Miss Universe contestants who were taller than her. She's reportedly the shortest candidate in MU history, with a height of 5"1'.
The cyberbullies—which sadly included mostly Filipino netizens—said Jess looked tired and lacked energy.
"Miss Bahrain, hindi po bawal mag-smile," commented one netizen.
"Mag-Enervon ka, Bahrain!" said another.
"I see so many bullies from these pictures," Jess responded in an IG post. "I am here to have a representation for all women regardless of the shape, size, religion, or color. For the people who spread hate on social media, I have nothing but love for all of you. I hope that you find peace in your heart as my co-sisters [and I] unite to break the world's stereotypes of beauty."
Instead of feeling dejected, she even joked about not being ready when the photo was taken. Jess also acknowledged that she also received a lot of support from Pinoys.
"On a positive note, I wanna thank everyone who said inspirational things and for the kind messages! Love you, kabayans!"
This isn't the first time that a Miss Universe candidate has refused to wear a swimsuit. In 2017, Miss Universe Great Britain Muna Jama made history as she wore a caftan instead of a bikini.
We love a proud and confident queen! Best of luck to you, Jess! Catch the pageant live from Eilat, Israel on Monday, December 13, on A2Z channel 11, at 7:30 am.
