EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — El Paso has made history as two natives, Gia Soleil Espinoza and Mia Autumn Navarro, were crowned Miss Earth USA and Miss Teen USA on Saturday, Jan. 3, in Orlando, Florida.
Gia Soleil Espinoza
Mia Autumn Navarro
This is the first time Texas representatives, both from El Paso, have earned the national titles in the same year, according to modeling agency Bazaar Model Management.
Both El Pasoans were appointed to their state titles through Bazaar Model Management under the direction of Jacqueline Garcia, Texas director and founder of the agency.
“Their journey from state appointments to national crowns is a testament to dedication, resilience, and the strength of mentorship rooted in the El Paso community,” read the news release.
The agency said Miss Earth USA and Miss Teen Earth USA competitions brought together top delegates from across the country to compete in areas emphasizing leadership, confidence, advocacy, and personal impact.
Standing out among exceptional competition, Espinoza and Navarro captured the judges’ attention and emerged victorious — bringing both national crowns back to Texas and making El Paso the spotlight of the nation, according to the news release.
“I am so proud of our Texas queens from El Paso taking the crown,” Garcia said. “Their hard work and perseverance have truly paid off. This duo deserves every drop of success for their work, but most of all for the sisterhood they share, bring authenticity to what pageantry is all about.”
As national titleholders, Espinoza and Navarro will now serve as ambassadors for the Miss Earth organization, championing environmental awareness, community service, and positive youth leadership on a national platform, the agency said.
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