Beauty contest Nidwalden girl represents Switzerland at the Miss Universe pageant

23-year-old Laura Bircher from Nidwalden will compete for the title of beauty queen for Switzerland at the world finals of the Miss Universe pageant in mid-November. On Saturday evening, the Stans native prevailed against 18 other finalists from several cantons.

In the final in Bern, the finalists presented themselves in different fashion outfits, as the organizers announced. The participants' communication skills were also in demand.

The trained veterinary practice assistant, who also works as a model, was overjoyed after winning the final. "I am incredibly happy and would like to thank everyone who has accompanied and supported me on this journey from the bottom of my heart," Bircher was quoted as saying in a press release.

"I will do my best to represent Switzerland in a worthy manner on the national and international stage and will be particularly committed to social causes," said Bircher. According to her own statements, mental health is particularly close to her heart. After traveling and a stay in Hawaii, she suffered from depression and panic attacks back in Switzerland, as she revealed to the "Nidwaldner Zeitung".

The final of the Miss Universe pageant in Mexico will take place on November 16. The beauty contest has been held since 1952. Last year, married women and mothers were allowed to take part for the first time. The title was won by Nicaraguan Sheynnis Palacios. The 23-year-old prevailed against 84 competitors from all over the world in El Salvador, Central America.

SDA