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Miss USA: Savannah Gankiewicz admits she’s happy, speaks on accepting the ‘rejected’ crown in Miss USA 2023. At 28 years old, Gankiewicz embraces her role as Miss USA 2023 without reservations, despite the unconventional circumstances of her coronation.
Gankiewicz, who previously held the title of Miss Hawaii and was the first runner-up in the Miss USA 2023 competition, recalls her initial reaction to the news of Voigt’s resignation. Her primary concern was for Voigt’s wellbeing and mental health. Following this, she considered the standard pageant procedures, which typically require the first runner-up to assume the title if the winner is unable to fulfill her duties.
“I can’t speak on their experience” Savannah defends her stance
Gankiewicz’s ascension to the title came after Noelia Voigt unexpectedly stepped down in early May, setting off a chain reaction of changes within the pageant organization.
“I can’t speak on their experience, but I can only judge from mine and it has been nothing but great,” Gankiewicz tells PEOPLE. “I’ve had the best time of my life, the best three months of my life. I’m honestly so grateful that I took this opportunity and I didn’t get scared to not take it.” “I use it as a tool to show that no one can bring you down,” Gankiewicz says. “You can just elevate yourself.” She added.
Gankiewicz reflects that despite facing initial criticism and opposition, the experience ultimately proved valuable. She views the challenges as an opportunity to demonstrate resilience, stating that she uses her journey as an example of how one can rise above negativity and criticism through personal growth and self-improvement.
How Savannah Gankiewicz used the Miss USA title to help people in Maui
During her journey, Gankiewicz discovered an unexpected benefit: the ability to make a significant impact on her community. This opportunity to give back and contribute meaningfully has become a deeply fulfilling aspect of her experience, one that she greatly values.
“I was able to shed light on the Maui wildfires and my non-profit,” she says. “I truly believe in the Miss USA organization. It has given me the tools I need for success, the growth I’ve experienced during this. I feel confident and empowered, and that’s all I want other young women to feel.” Savannah adds.
Here’s why Noelia Voigt resigned her crown
The original Miss USA 2023 Noelia Voigt had resigned her crown after winning the competition. When Voigt announced her resignation, she publicly attributed it to concerns about her mental wellbeing.
Subsequently, a detailed eight-page letter of resignation surfaced in various media outlets. This document contained several allegations against the pageant organization, including claims of a harmful workplace culture. However, CEO Laylah Rose has contested these accusations.
Following Noelia’s resignation, Miss Teen USA 2023 UmaSofia Srivastava had also relinquished her crown. Shrivastava claimed her ideology “no longer matched” with that of the organization.
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