The lights were bright, the air thick with excitement. Everyone waited to hear who would take the ultimate prize. When the name “Yamilex Hernández” filled the room, the 29-year-old from the Dominican Republic, who now calls New Jersey home, bent low with emotion. Her hands went up in thanks, a clear gesture of gratitude. She had won the coveted Miss Universe Latina crown. Genesis Dávila, from Puerto Rico, earned the spot of first runner-up.
The final night began with a touch of drama. Just one day before, during a semifinal challenge, Cuba’s Laura Pérez had a bad fall. There was worry she wouldn’t be able to continue. But she surprised everyone by showing up on stage, receiving a huge round of applause. Her strength was clear.
Eight finalists battled it out for the crown in this final episode of the reality show. This time, the challenges felt more like a true Miss Universe competition, moving away from the creative tasks seen earlier.
Here’s how the final placements stacked up:
- Top 8: Osmariel Villalobos (Venezuela), Ediris Joan (Puerto Rico), and Jelly Gilart (Cuba)
- Top 5: Laura Pérez (Cuba) and Andrea Bazarte (Mexico)
- Second runner-up: Gemmy Quelliz (Dominican Republic)
- First runner-up: Génesis Dávila (Puerto Rico)
- Winner: Yamilex Hernández (Dominican Republic)
Yamilex didn’t just walk away with the beautiful emerald and ruby crown. She also received a $100,000 cash prize. Even bigger, she earned a special spot to represent Latina women at the next Miss Universe pageant. That big event is set for November 21st in Thailand.
Yamilex Hernández, winner of Miss Universe Latina. Image: Courtesy Telemundo
Who is Yamilex Hernández?
At 29, Yamilex Hernández stands out as a bright new face for Latinas on the world stage. She hails from Tavera, a small town within the La Vega district.
Yamilex holds a degree in Social Communication. She also works as an actress, a model, and a community activist. Her strong education and dedication to social causes have given her a unique edge. The Dominican news site El Jaya pointed out these qualities made her a standout among the other contestants.
From the very beginning of the competition, Yamilex was seen as a favorite. Her confidence, realness, and comfort on stage made her shine. Veteran queen trainer Magali Febles helped her prepare, playing a big part in her journey to the title.
One memorable moment was the question round. Yamilex spoke passionately about leadership. She shared how her experience moving to the United States helped her make a positive difference in other people’s lives. Her answer was heartfelt and strong. It moved the audience and helped secure her path to the crown.
After her victory, Yamilex shared her feelings. “Two months of hard work ended today,” she said. “I can’t put into words how I feel. First, thank God, because I am here because of Him. Thanks to my family, who came, and my friends too. I know a new chapter is starting. I will fight for this Miss Universe Latina to also become Miss Universe. I am hungry for more crowns.”
This wasn’t Yamilex’s first time competing. In 2023, she was the first runner-up in Miss República Dominicana. She also represented her country in Miss International República Dominicana. Her past shows her steady effort, clear goals, and strong desire to represent Dominican women with pride.
In other news from the pageant world, talk circulated about Zuleyka Rivera. Her choice to step down from Miss Universe Latina led to many different opinions.