Mothers of Beauty Queens Share Disturbing Stories: Unveiling Mistreatment and Bullying
Following the resignation of Miss USA and Miss Teen USA, the mothers of Noelia Voigt and UmaSofia Srivastava shed light on the mistreatment, abuse, and bullying faced by their daughters during their pageant reigns.
Days after their daughters decided to relinquish their pageant titles, the mothers of former Miss USA Noelia Voigt and Miss Teen USA UmaSofia Srivastava are now speaking out on their behalf. The mothers mentioned that their daughters are still bound by non-disclosure agreements with the Miss USA organization.
Barbara Srivastava, speaking on Good Morning America alongside Jackeline Voigt, expressed, “The job of their dreams turned out to be a nightmare. We could not continue this charade. The girls decided to step down and give up their dream of a lifetime - a crown, a national title. Why would two girls decide to give that up?”
The mothers have publicly shared their thoughts on the recent events that caused turmoil in the pageant world. It was a significant moment as it marked the first time a titleholder in Miss USA or Miss Teen USA had resigned, and both resignations happened quickly. UmaSofia Srivastava mentioned on Instagram that her values no longer matched with the organization's, while Noelia Voigt cited her mental health as the reason for stepping down, with her lengthy statement hinting at feeling silenced.
During an interview on Good Morning America, Jackeline chose not to comment on whether the perceived hidden message was intentional. However, when asked if she believed her daughter was being silenced, she expressed her concern, stating, "She is, and she would be for the rest of her life if this NDA is not lifted."
Barbara Srivastava and Jackeline Voigt on Good Morning America on Tuesday.
Barbara Srivastava and Jackeline Voigt on Good Morning America on Tuesday.
ABC Good Morning America
Voigt's resignation letter to Miss USA, which was obtained and shared by CNN on Saturday, exposed various accusations against Miss USA CEO Laylah Rose. These accusations included claims of a "toxic work environment" filled with instances of "bullying."
Voigt wrote in a letter that Rose is creating a culture of fear and control, which goes against women's empowerment. This environment is deemed unsafe for future titleholders and employees. Voigt also mentioned that Rose did not provide her with proper travel arrangements or a reliable handler. This lack of support led to a troubling incident where Voigt was left alone in a car with a stranger during a parade in Sarasota, Florida. As a result, she was sexually harassed by an unnamed man.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - FEBRUARY 10: (L-R) Miss Teen USA 2023, UmaSofia Srivastava and Miss USA 2023, Noelia Voigt attend Supermodels Unlimited Magazine Presents: Billboards Over Broadway - NYFW Celebrity Event at Nebula Nightclub on February 10, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Craig Barritt/Getty Images for Supermodels Unlimited)
On February 10, 2024, Miss Teen USA 2023, UmaSofia Srivastava, and Miss USA 2023, Noelia Voigt, were spotted at the Supermodels Unlimited Magazine Presents: Billboards Over Broadway - NYFW Celebrity Event at Nebula Nightclub in New York City. The event was a glamorous affair, with both beauty queens looking stunning in their stylish outfits. The photo captured the moment perfectly, showcasing the elegance and poise of the two pageant winners. It was definitely a night to remember for all in attendance.
Related article
Shock Miss USA resignations are just the tip of the iceberg, insiders say
Her mother, who was in Sarasota with her, saw Noelia shortly after the incident. In an interview, she shared that Noelia was visibly distressed. She asked her daughter what had happened, and Noelia urged her to get in the car. Noelia had been approached by a man who insensitively asked if she was interested in older men with money, causing her great discomfort.
According to Jackeline, Rose did not apologize. Voigt mentioned in her resignation letter that Rose told her the organization "cannot prevent people from saying things to you at public appearances" and that it is "unfortunately, part of the role."
Voigt at the 72nd Miss Universe Competition in San Salvador in November.
Voigt at the 72nd Miss Universe Competition in San Salvador in November.
Hector Vivas/Getty Images
Barbara Srivastava shared that the titleholders faced mistreatment, abuse, bullying, and isolation during their time as reigning champions.
Jackeline urged the Miss Universe Organization, the owner of Miss USA, to communicate with them or offer an apology. Despite being owned by JKN Global Group, the parent organization has remained silent for the past week.
The Miss USA and Miss Universe Organization did not respond to requests for comment from CNN. The mothers are cautioning potential pageant contestants about Miss USA. Savannah Gankiewicz will take the Miss USA title in a ceremony on Wednesday. However, the runner-up for Miss Teen USA, Stephanie Skinner, declined the crown in a public statement on Instagram. It is still uncertain if the second runner-up, Maggie Ross, will accept the title.
Jackeline explained that Noelia and UmaSofia's situation serves as a cautionary tale. She mentioned that it's best to hold off on getting involved at the moment.
She emphasized that their main concern is preventing other families and girls from experiencing the same challenges they are currently facing.
Editor's P/S:
The recent resignations of Miss USA and Miss Teen USA have sparked a national conversation about the toxic culture within the pageant industry. The mothers of the former titleholders have spoken out,
