By HipLatina Editorial
November 11, 2026 – 07:00
Additional reporting by Anna Ortega.
The global phenomenon that is the Miss Universe pageant has officially kicked off, bringing its dazzling spectacle, international diplomacy, and high-stakes competition to the vibrant island of Puerto Rico for its 2026 edition. While millions of viewers from around the world tune in to watch contestants command the stage with poise, intelligence, and breathtaking fashion, a tremendous amount of meticulous work happens far away from the television cameras and live audience spotlights. Behind every radiant face, flawless complexion, and gravity-defying hairstyle is an elite, highly skilled team of beauty professionals working tirelessly backstage. For the 2026 pageant, this crucial operation is anchored by a powerhouse Latine glam squad whose artistic vision and technical mastery are setting a new standard for international pageantry.
At the helm of the official Miss Universe 2026 glam team are Glam Directors Yamile Paduani and Axel Vasquez, whose leadership is guiding the backstage beauty preparations. Paduani’s journey to this prestigious position is a testament to dedication, artistic evolution, and cultural representation within the global beauty industry. Born in Venezuela—a country renowned globally for its deep-rooted pageant culture and rigorous beauty training regimens—Paduani spent years establishing herself as a deeply respected and versatile professional makeup artist. Her exceptional eye for detail, understanding of stage lighting, and ability to enhance natural features while meeting the demanding visual standards of international television caught the attention of pageant organizers. In 2023, her hard work and industry reputation culminated in her appointment as the Miss Universe Makeup Director, a role she continues to excel in. Alongside Vasquez, Paduani oversees a fast-paced, high-pressure environment, ensuring that every single contestant steps onto the stage feeling radiant, confident, and entirely stage-ready.
The scope of work required to prep dozens of delegates from every corner of the globe is immense, demanding a team of specialized artisans who can perform under intense time constraints. The official makeup artistry roster for the 2026 pageant features a stellar lineup of talented professionals, including Lizmarie Camareno, Nadia Tabban, Alondra Ortolaza, Rosaura Mariel Orozco, Isabella Krubeck, and Yamiliz Pérez. Each of these artists brings a unique flair and specialized skill set to the dressing rooms. Their primary objective is not merely applying makeup, but engineering looks that can withstand hours of rigorous rehearsals, intense studio and stage lighting, and the emotional demands of competition, all while looking entirely effortless. From creating glowing, long-lasting complexions to defining eyes that communicate emotion and confidence from the back of a crowded arena, these makeup artists tailor their techniques to complement the individual features and cultural backgrounds of each queen.
Simultaneously, the hair styling division is executing equally complex transformations under the guidance of top-tier specialists. The hair team features experts such as Stephanie Solanch, Neidaliz García, Janixa del Valle, Illiana Rodriguez, Evamarie Pagán, Noelys Martínez, and Yarelis Torres. Creating pageant-ready hair is an exacting science; styles must remain completely secure during high-energy choreographed opening numbers and evening gown walks, yet look fluid and luxurious. This talented group of hair specialists is responsible for crafting a wide array of looks, ranging from sleek, modern high updos that project command and sophistication to cascading, voluminous waves that catch the movement of the stage lights. Every strand is treated with precision, ensuring that the contestants’ hair harmonizes seamlessly with their evening gowns, national costumes, and interview outfits.
The impact of this exceptional Latine glam squad is already highly visible on the ground in Puerto Rico, where top contenders are turning heads during preliminary rounds and public appearances. Among those benefiting from the artistry of Paduani, Vasquez, and their team are standout delegates such as Miss Colombia María Alejandra López, Miss Peru Luren Márquez, Miss Mexico María Vargas, and Miss Brazil Marcella Kozinski. For these competitors, stepping onto the international stage is the culmination of years of personal preparation, discipline, and national pride. Knowing that their hair and makeup are in the hands of some of the industry’s most talented professionals provides an invaluable sense of ease and empowerment.
As the competition progresses from the initial preliminary rounds toward the heavily anticipated final night of crowning, the backstage pressure will only intensify. Quick-change routines, sudden wardrobe adjustments, and continuous touch-ups will test the speed and synergy of the entire beauty operation. Yet, with seasoned directors like Yamile Paduani and Axel Vasquez leading the charge, and a dedicated crew of makeup artists and hair specialists executing every look with precision, the Miss Universe 2026 glam team is more than equipped for the challenge. Through their artistry, professionalism, and dedication, these beauty experts are ensuring that every delegate shines brightly on the global stage, making the behind-the-scenes magic an integral part of the pageant’s enduring legacy.
