Nada Kousa Off to Miss Universe After Insulting Promo Video

Miss Lebanon 2024 Nada Koussa decided to move forward with representing Lebanon in the Miss Universe pageant in Mexico. After an insulting promotional video was released, Koussa decided to withdraw her participation.

What prompted her decision to withdraw?

The promotional video featured President Advisor Osmel Sousa and Proprietor of the Miss Universe pageant Anne JKN making disparaging comments regarding Miss Lebanon’s appearance. Sousa grimaces and expresses his dislike for her photograph, to which Anne JKN responds with a laugh. The disrespectful promotional video led to Koussa’s withdrawal from the pageant.

The Lebanese Ministry of Tourism promptly sent a letter to the pageant organizers, demanding a public apology and the removal of the video. Initially, their response did not include a clear apology. This prompted Koussa to decide against participating, taking a stand not only for her own dignity but for Lebanon as a whole.

After her withdrawal, the pageant organizers issued an official apology and removed the promotional video. Koussa was also promised a special reception in Mexico, along with an in-person apology upon her arrival. After careful consideration, she chose to retract her decision and proceed with the pageant.

Representing Lebanon amidst war

Koussa was unsure as to whether she was going to participate in the pageant due to the ongoing war. For weeks, she has been working on the ground to support the displaced alongside a number of local initiatives. Some of her activities included:

– Providing psychological support during school visits

– Participating in donation drives and other campaigns

– Preparing and distributing hot meals to the displaced

– Partnering up with the NMPH and WHO to spread mental health awareness

As a clinical psychologist, Koussa has constantly championed mental health awareness, which was the initial message behind her Miss Universe campaign. She recently decided to change her message to highlight the current aggressions against Lebanon and show the world the grim realities of war.

Best of luck to Miss Lebanon 2024! Beyond her title, Koussa’s commitment to mental health and community well-being underscores her love for her nation.

As Nada Koussa sets off to represent Lebanon in the Miss Universe pageant, here’s everything you need to know about our current Miss Lebanon.