Introduction
In a dazzling celebration of beauty, culture, and resilience, Nadia Grace Mejía was crowned Miss Universe Ecuador 2025 on July 26, 2025, at the Palacio de Cristal in Guayaquil. Her victory wasn’t just a triumph of elegance—it was a story of perseverance, identity, and the power of second chances.
Table of Contents
Roots of Grace: Childhood and Family Background
Born on November 22, 1995, in Diamond Bar, California, Nadia Mejía was destined to live a life steeped in creativity and charisma. Her lineage is a blend of artistic flair and pageant prestige:
- Father: Gerardo Mejía, an Ecuadorian-American musician, best known for his 1991 hit “Rico Suave.” Gerardo’s flamboyant style and Latin charm made him a pop culture icon in the early ’90s.
- Mother: Kathy Eicher, crowned Miss West Virginia USA in 1989, brought elegance and poise into the household.
Growing up in a family that had both musical and pageant roots, Nadia was exposed early to the spotlight. Her family even starred in the reality TV series Suave Says, offering viewers a glimpse into their dynamic lives.
Education: Building a Foundation of Confidence
Nadia Mejia attended Diamond Bar High School, graduating in 2013. During high school, she became increasingly interested in modeling and public speaking. Though she was surrounded by fame, Nadia’s upbringing emphasized humility, faith, and self-expression.
During these years, she began to grapple with personal challenges, including anorexia nervosa, a struggle she would later speak about publicly. Her experience with body image and mental health shaped her advocacy work and added depth to her public persona.
Faith and Leadership
Beyond academics, Nadia Mejia found solace and strength in her faith. She became a worship leader at her church in Los Angeles, singing weekly in front of thousands. This role not only honed her stage presence but also deepened her connection to community and purpose.
Her spiritual grounding became a cornerstone of her identity, influencing her approach to pageantry and public life. She often credits her faith for helping her overcome personal battles and stay centered amid the pressures of the modeling industry.
First Steps into Pageantry
Nadia Mejia’s first major pageant success came in 2016 when she won Miss California USA. She went on to compete in Miss USA, where she placed in the Top 5—a remarkable feat that introduced her to the national stage. But her journey wasn’t without its challenges. Nadia openly battled anorexia and body image issues, using her platform to speak candidly about her recovery and advocate for mental health awareness.
Her social initiative, “I Am Enough,” became a beacon of hope for many. Through it, she encourages young people to embrace their uniqueness and reject harmful comparisons. Her message: “We are all wonderfully made.”
Early Pageant Career: From Teen Titles to California Queen
Nadia Mejia’s pageant journey began in her teens:
- Miss Beverly Hills Teen USA 2013: Her first title, marking her entry into competitive pageantry.
- Miss California Teen USA 2013: Placed as 4th Runner-Up.
- Miss California Teen USA 2014: Reached the Top 20.
- Miss Malibu USA 2015: Continued her rise in the pageant circuit.
- Miss California USA 2015: Again placed in the Top 20.
Her breakthrough came in December 2015, when she was crowned Miss California USA 2016, representing Corona del Mar. At Miss USA 2016, she was voted Fan Favorite and placed in the Top 5, winning hearts with her candidness and charm.
Embracing Her Ecuadorian Heritage
Though born and raised in the U.S., Nadia Mejia has always embraced her Ecuadorian roots. In 2024, she entered the inaugural Miss Universe Ecuador pageant, representing the Ecuadorian community in the United States. She placed as first runner-up, a result that only fueled her determination.
In 2025, she returned to the competition, again representing the diaspora. On July 26, 2025, at the Palacio de Cristal in Guayaquil, Nadia Mejía was crowned Miss Universe Ecuador 2025, becoming the first representative from the Ecuadorian diaspora to win the title.
From Runner-Up to Reigning Queen
Nadia Mejía’s journey to the crown was anything but ordinary. In the 2024 edition, she finished as the first runner-up, narrowly missing the title to Mara Topic. But instead of stepping away, Nadia returned with renewed determination, proving that dreams deferred are not dreams denied.
Her 2025 win was a moment of poetic justice. With poise and passion, she captivated the judges and audience alike, ultimately earning the honor of representing Ecuador at Miss Universe 2025.
A Queen from the Diaspora
One of the most compelling aspects of Nadia Mejia’s win is her background. Representing the Ecuadorian community in the United States, she brings a unique bicultural perspective to the role. Born and raised in Los Angeles, Nadia is the daughter of Gerardo Mejía, a well-known Ecuadorian singer and former rapper, best remembered for his hit “Rico Suave.”
Her win is a powerful statement about the global Ecuadorian identity—celebrating not just those born within the borders of Ecuador, but also those who carry its spirit abroad.
Miss Universe Ecuador 2025: The Victory
On July 26, 2025, at the Palacio de Cristal in Guayaquil, Nadia Mejía-Webb was crowned Miss Universe Ecuador 2025. The event, hosted by Eduardo Andrade and broadcast by TC Televisión, featured 19 contestants from across Ecuador and its diaspora. Nadia’s poise, eloquence, and authenticity captivated the judges and audience alike.
Her crowning moment was electric—a culmination of years of perseverance and personal growth. Mara Topić, Miss Universe Ecuador 2024, passed on the crown with grace, symbolizing a new era of empowered beauty.
Watch the crowning moment and preliminary performance to witness her radiant presence.
Preliminary Performance and Pageant Highlights
Nadia Mejia’s preliminary performance was a masterclass in elegance. Her walk was confident, her smile magnetic, and her energy infectious. She wore a shimmering gown that reflected both her inner strength and outer beauty. Her interview responses were heartfelt and articulate, touching on her advocacy work and her vision for Ecuador on the global stage.
Her ability to connect with the audience and judges was unmatched. She wasn’t just answering questions—she was telling a story, one that resonated deeply with everyone watching.
The Night of the Gala: A Celebration of Ecuadorian Elegance
The 2025 pageant was a spectacle of glamour and national pride. Held during the Fiestas Julianas, the event featured 19 contestants from across Ecuador and its diaspora. The evening was hosted by Eduardo Andrade, with musical performances by Daniel Betancourth, adding a festive flair to the proceedings.
The top placements included:
| Placement | Contestant | Region |
| Winner | Nadia Mejía | United States |
| 1st Runner-Up | Daphne Currat | Tungurahua |
| 2nd Runner-Up | Christie Isabel Thermidor | Región Sierra |
| Top 5 Finalists | Cristiane Marques, Mariola Vejarano | Guayaquil, Guayas |
| Top 10 Finalists | Lisseth Naranjo, Priscilla Jijón, Paula Vizcaíno, Andrea Gura, Kenia Bonilla | Various provinces |
The event also crowned Samantha Quenedit from Quito as Miss Grand Ecuador 2025, who will represent the country at the Miss Grand International pageant.
A Legacy of Talent: The Mejía Family
Nadia Mejia’s father, Gerardo Mejía, has long been a cultural icon in Latin America and the U.S. His transition from music to ministry has inspired many, and Nadia often speaks about the values instilled in her by her family—faith, humility, and perseverance.
Her mother, Kathy Mejía, is a former beauty queen herself, which makes Nadia’s win feel like a continuation of a family legacy. The blend of showbiz charisma and grounded values makes Nadia a compelling ambassador for Ecuador.
Representing Ecuador on the Global Stage
As Miss Universe Ecuador 2025, Nadia Mejia will represent her country at the 74th Miss Universe competition in Thailand this November. Her preparation is already underway—training in public speaking, runway skills, cultural representation, and global advocacy. Her bicultural background, fluency in English and Spanish, and international modeling experience position her as a strong contender.
She’s expected to highlight Ecuador’s rich biodiversity, indigenous heritage, and vibrant arts scene in her global appearances. Her advocacy work will likely focus on mental health awareness and empowering young women to embrace their individuality.
Iconic Moments from the Gala
- Mara Topic’s farewell walk: The outgoing queen dazzled in a pink and silver gown, delivering a heartfelt message: “Las reinas no brillan por su corona, brillan por su corazón” (“Queens don’t shine because of their crown, they shine because of their heart”).
- Nadia’s coronation: With tears of joy and a radiant smile, Nadia accepted the crown, fulfilling a dream she had chased for years.
- Miss Universe Victoria Kjaer’s appearance: The reigning Miss Universe graced the event in a gown designed by an Ecuadorian designer, adding international flair to the celebration.
Nadia Mejía: Miss Universe Ecuador 2025 and Her Mission to Heal Through Advocacy
In the dazzling world of pageantry, where beauty often takes center stage, Nadia Mejía has emerged as a beacon of authenticity, resilience, and purpose. Crowned Miss Universe Ecuador 2025, Nadia is not just a titleholder—she’s a woman on a mission to transform pain into power and redefine what it means to be “enough.”
From Crown to Cause: The Rise of Nadia Mejía
Nadia Mejía, representing the Ecuadorian community in the United States, captivated audiences during the Miss Universe Ecuador 2025 gala held at the Palacio de Cristal in Guayaquil. Her elegance and charisma were undeniable, but it was her vulnerability and advocacy that truly set her apart.
Daughter of Ecuadorian singer Gerardo Mejía and former beauty queen Kathy Eicher, Nadia carries a rich cultural heritage—Ecuadorian, Lebanese, and American—which she proudly embraces. Her journey to the crown was not linear; after placing as second runner-up in 2024, she returned stronger, more fluent in Spanish, and deeply committed to a cause close to her heart: mental health.
The Struggle Behind the Smile: Battling Anorexia
Nadia Mejia’s advocacy stems from a deeply personal battle with anorexia—a struggle that nearly broke her but ultimately became the foundation of her purpose. In interviews, she has spoken candidly about the years she spent fighting the disorder, the isolation it brought, and the long road to recovery.
Her campaign, titled “Soy suficiente” (“I am enough”), is more than a slogan—it’s a movement. Inspired by her own healing journey, Nadia uses this platform to speak to young people, especially girls, about self-worth, body image, and the importance of mental health. “I don’t want to be perfect,” she says. “I want to be real”.
Advocacy in Action: “Soy suficiente” Campaign
The “Soy suficiente” campaign is rooted in three pillars:
- Mental Health Education: Nadia visits schools and universities across Ecuador, hosting workshops and talks that focus on self-esteem, eating disorders, and emotional resilience.
- Community Outreach: She partners with local NGOs to bring resources to underserved communities, including therapy access, nutritional guidance, and peer support groups.
- Storytelling as Healing: Nadia encourages young people to share their stories, believing that vulnerability can be a powerful tool for healing. Her own testimony is a central part of every event she attends.
Her message is simple yet profound: “Your story matters. You are enough.”
Charity Work and Social Impact
Beyond her advocacy, Nadia Mejia has been actively involved in charity work throughout Ecuador. Some of her notable initiatives include:
1. Mental Health Clinics in Rural Areas
Nadia has collaborated with health professionals to establish temporary mental health clinics in provinces like Imbabura and Tungurahua. These clinics offer free consultations, therapy sessions, and educational materials for families dealing with mental health challenges.
2. Support for Orphanages and Youth Shelters
She regularly visits orphanages and shelters, bringing not just donations but also hope. Her sessions often include storytelling circles, where children are encouraged to express themselves through art and writing.
3. Partnerships with Local Foundations
Nadia has partnered with Ecuadorian foundations such as Fundación Cecilia Rivadeneira and Fundación Ser Feliz to amplify her reach. Together, they’ve launched campaigns focused on suicide prevention and emotional literacy.
4. Digital Empowerment
Recognizing the power of social media, Nadia launched a digital series under the “Soy suficiente” banner, featuring interviews with psychologists, survivors, and influencers who share their journeys toward self-acceptance.
A Voice for the Voiceless
What makes Nadia Mejia’s work so impactful is her ability to connect. She shares her insights from real-life experience, not by looking down on others. Her final message during the Miss Universe Ecuador gala was a heartfelt declaration:
“I know last year wasn’t my moment. But today is. I came back stronger, and I’m here to remind every girl watching: you are enough. Your pain has purpose. Let’s heal together.”
These words resonated far beyond the stage, igniting conversations across Ecuador about mental health, self-worth, and the power of second chances.
Breaking Barriers in Pageantry
Nadia Mejia’s reign also marks a shift in the pageant world. She won not only the crown but also multiple special awards, including Best Social Project, Miss Renaissance, and Miss Infinix, the latter awarded by popular vote. Her success signals a growing appreciation for substance over superficiality.
Moreover, her presence has inspired inclusivity. The 2025 pageant saw historic moments, such as the participation of Kenia Bonilla, the first transgender woman to reach the semifinals—a testament to the evolving values of the competition.
Faith, Identity, and Purpose
Faith plays a central role in Nadia Mejia’s journey. She often credits her strength to her spiritual beliefs, saying, “God is my essence. With God by my side, everything is possible.” Her advocacy is not just about healing—it’s about purpose, identity, and divine timing.
She also embraces her Ecuadorian identity with pride. Though raised in Los Angeles, she insists, “I’m not American. I’m Ecuadorian. I’ve said it since I was four years old.” Her love for Ecuador is evident in everything she does—from cooking traditional dishes like seco de pollo to speaking passionately about the country’s youth.
Final Thoughts: A Queen for the New Era
Nadia Mejía’s coronation as Miss Universe Ecuador 2025 is more than a personal victory—it’s a cultural moment. She embodies the modern Ecuadorian woman: confident, compassionate, and globally connected.
Her journey reminds us that persistence pays off, and that true beauty lies in authenticity and purpose. As she prepares to represent Ecuador on the world stage, one thing is clear—Nadia Mejía is not just wearing a crown. She’s carrying a legacy.
Also read about “Danielle Latimer: Miss Universe Great Britain 2025 – Inspiring Journey, Advocacy, and Empowerment“.
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