The Croatian women battling for a $5.75 million crown

(Photo: Emanuel Mancy for Miss Universe Croatia)

The winner of his year’s Miss Universe will be crowned with a crown worth over 5.75 million USD. 

The “Force for Good” crown, worth a staggering 5.75 million dollars, is made of white gold adorned with diamonds and sapphires. 

It carries a powerful message and is one of the most beautiful and valuable in the world. 

“In homage to the values of the Miss Universe Organization and the platform it provides for women to use their voices as catalysts for positive change in society, the Mouawad Force for Good Crown is a unique piece of jewelry featuring a setting of sapphires and diamonds, whose design symbolizes the action of achieving fundamental change. 

“Force for Good” crown (Photo: PR Miss Universe Hrvatske)

The main motif of the crown is waves, representing the need for every call for change to be repeated. The ultimate goal of change for good is represented by the royal blue sapphire of 45.14 carats, located at the top of the crown. Recognizing that significant change never happens instantly but only after prolonged effort, the base of the crown is set with diamonds symbolizing the status quo. 

The royal blue color of the sapphire at the top symbolizes kindness and hope for a brighter future,” explains Ivana Delač, Director of Public Relations for the Miss Universe Croatia Directorate. 

Only one of over several thousand girls who apply annually from around the world to the most prestigious competition in the world, Miss Universe, has the opportunity for a global reign and this beautiful crown. 

But first, she must win the national selection. In the upcoming Miss Universe Croatia 2024 pageant, 15 beautiful and intelligent girls are competing. 

One of them speaks four world languages, another is a skilled nutritionist, the third is a special education teacher, and one is studying molecular biology. 

“All of these girls aim for victory and the fight for the world crown, and each of them continuously works on projects of social significance that influence young people, which is indeed the mission of the Miss Universe platform,” says Ivana Delač. 

Below, we present you with the biographies and official photos of this year’s finalists in Pletix swimsuits, photographed at one of the seven pools at the Royal Hotels & Resort in Dubrovnik, where the girls spent four days preparing for Miss Universe Croatia 2024. which will take place on May 6, 2024, in the Emerald Hall of the Esplanade Hotel in Zagreb. 

Makeup is by Maja Zatezalo, and hairstyles by Studio Marcela.

1.LAURA ALEKSA, 18, Đakovo

Laura Aleksa (Photo: Emanuel Mancy for Miss Universe Croatia)

Education/Qualification: Completed Economics School and currently attending Medical School for Pharmacists; also completed a caregiver course

Languages: English, Hungarian

Laura is proud of her growth into a highly ambitious, responsible, conscientious, prospective, and straightforward person, ready to fight for and achieve all she desires in life. She cherishes spending time with family, friends, and being in nature. In her free time, she rides horses, bikes, skates, and runs. She plays the piano, sings, and enjoys reading. Over the years, she has been involved in swimming, gymnastics, pilates, basketball, and kickboxing. Laura actively participates in humanitarian actions, supporting earthquake victims, volunteering for various causes, and aiding the elderly and those in need. As Miss Universe Croatia, she would advocate for humanitarian education and encourage donations to those in need, while engaging in crisis relief organizations and volunteering efforts.

2.SARA ANTIĆ, 18, Zagreb

Sara Antić (Photo: Emanuel Mancy for Miss Universe Croatia)

Education/Qualification: Completed High School of Commerce in Zagreb

Languages: English

Sara takes pride in her family, especially her parents, who taught her gratitude and guided her on the right path. She believes hunger is a major global issue and advocates for societal restructuring to address it. Sara enjoys swimming in her free time. As Miss Universe Croatia, she would champion equality for all.

3.DAJANA BARIŠIĆ, 19, Gradište

Dajana Barišić (Photo: Emanuel Mancy for Miss Universe Croatia)

Education/Qualification: Completed Vocational High School in Vinkovci

Languages: English

Dajana is proud of her achievements so far, especially daring to participate in the Miss Universe Croatia competition and making it to the finals. She enjoys sewing and creating products by hand, along with gardening. Dajana actively participates in humanitarian actions, supporting Caritas and encouraging youth to pursue their dreams. She believes in never giving up on one’s aspirations.

4.HANNAH ANASTASIA BIČANIĆ, 23, Zagreb

Hannah Anastasia Bičanić (Photo: Emanuel Mancy for Miss Universe Croatia)

Education/Qualification: Studying Nutrition at the Faculty of Food Technology and Biotechnology in Zagreb, and Entrepreneurship at the Faculty of Economics in Rijeka

Languages: English, German

Hannah Anastasia is particularly proud of her faith and resourcefulness, which sustained her through life’s challenges. She enjoys digital drawing, flower arranging, fitness training, and reading. If crowned Miss Universe Croatia, she would advocate for free feminine hygiene products and encourage entrepreneurship among youth.

5.LORENA ČAČIJA, 18, Rijeka

Lorena Čačija (Photo: Emanuel Mancy for Miss Universe Croatia)

Education/Qualification: High School graduate from the Craft School in Opatija

Languages: English

Lorena’s pride lies in her growth as a young woman who remained true to her dreams and values. She is heavily involved in dance competitions, fitness, and volunteering activities. As Miss Universe Croatia, she would promote self-confidence, healthy communication, and support for mental health.

6.ZRINKA ĆORIĆ, 22, Dubrovnik

Zrinka Ćorić (Photo: Emanuel Mancy for Miss Universe Croatia)

Education/Qualification: Completed Medical High School

Languages: English

Zrinka is proud of her personal growth through past experiences and her ability to face challenges with confidence. She finds inspiration in fashion and photography. As Miss Universe Croatia, she would advocate for mental health awareness and women’s empowerment.

7.ANASTASIA IČEVIĆ, 22, Vukovar

Anastasia Ičević (Photo: Emanuel Mancy for Miss Universe Croatia)

Education/Qualification: Studying Special Education at the Faculty of Medicine in Novi Sad

Languages: English

Anastasia excels in Latin and Caribbean dances, winning titles at international competitions. She believes in promoting physical activity among youth through dance. As Miss Universe Croatia, she aims to empower women and motivate youth to embrace their talents.

8.MATEA ILIĆ, 20, Podgrađe

Matea Ilić (Photo: Emanuel Mancy for Miss Universe Croatia)

Education/Qualification: Studying Nursing at the Croatian Catholic University in Zagreb

Languages: English

Matea’s pride stems from her determination to pursue a career in nursing and her dedication to helping others. She advocates for mental health awareness and support for those facing mental health challenges.

9.SOFYA KOTAVA, 18, Rijeka

Sofya Kotava (Photo: Emanuel Mancy for Miss Universe Croatia)

Education/Qualification: High School graduate from the Italian School in Rijeka

Languages: Russian, English, Italian, German

Sofya takes pride in her character and perseverance, despite her insecurities, as she explores modeling and other endeavors. She loves dancing, singing, and volunteering. As Miss Universe Croatia, she would support abused children and advocate for their rights.

10.MARTA LEKOVIĆ, 22, Jezera

Marta Leković (Photo: Emanuel Mancy for Miss Universe Croatia)

Education/Qualification: Completed undergraduate studies in Biology at St. Thomas University, Miami (USA); currently pursuing a graduate degree in Molecular Biology at UNIMORE (Italy)

Languages: English, Italian

Marta’s achievements in sports and academics, including swimming and studying abroad, are sources of pride for her. She advocates for mental health awareness and gender equality. As Miss Universe Croatia, she aims to inspire young women to pursue their dreams.

11.ANA MARJOLOVIĆ, 28, Zagreb

Ana Marjolović (Photo: Emanuel Mancy for Miss Universe Croatia)

Education/Qualification: Studying Fashion Design at Profokus School in Zagreb

Languages: English

Ana is proud of becoming a role model for youth. She enjoys various activities like drawing, swimming, and hiking. As Miss Universe Croatia, she would promote mental and physical health and youth education.

12.ARIJANA MARTINOVIĆ, 18, Vinkovci

Arijana Martinović (Photo: Emanuel Mancy for Miss Universe Croatia)

Education/Qualification: Completed Vocational High School in Vinkovci

Languages: English

Arijana’s pride lies in winning first place in a national hairdressing competition. She is passionate about helping others and enjoys dancing and singing. As Miss Universe Croatia, she would encourage young people to pursue their dreams and advocate for gender equality.

13.CLAUDIA MIHOKOVIĆ, 28, Garešnica

Claudia Mihoković (Photo: Emanuel Mancy for Miss Universe Croatia)

Education/Qualification: Completed undergraduate studies in Mathematics Education at the Faculty of Science in Zagreb

Languages: English, German

Claudia takes pride in her successful marriage, family relationships, and career. She advocates for education and empowerment of youth. As Miss Universe Croatia, she would promote self-confidence and support for children, especially those without parental guidance.

14.VLATKA PAČARIĆ, 21, Slatina

Vlatka Pačarić (Photo: Emanuel Mancy for Miss Universe Croatia)

Education/Qualification: 3rd-year student of Communication Studies at the Croatian Catholic University in Zagreb

Languages: English

Vlatka is proud of her self-confidence and dedication to helping others. She enjoys playing the flute, acting, and volunteering. As Miss Universe Croatia, she would advocate for children’s rights and provide guidance and support to those in need.

15.LANA VUKOVIĆ, 20, Split

Lana Vuković Photo: Emanuel Mancy for Miss Universe Croatia)

Education/Qualification: Studying Law at the Faculty of Law in Split

Languages: English

Lana takes pride in her academic achievements and her commitment to fitness and helping others. As Miss Universe Croatia, she would support disadvantaged children and advocate for autism awareness.