Lina Luaces, the 22-year-old model and rising star of the Estefan family dynasty, was crowned Miss Universe Cuba 2025 on Tuesday, July 8, during a glitzy ceremony in Hialeah, Florida, the beating heart of the Cuban-American community.
Representing Santiago de Cuba and born in Miami, Luaces captured the spotlight from the moment her name was announced as a contestant. Her win is historic not just for her beauty and poise, but because she hails from one of Latin entertainment's most influential families. She's the daughter of Latino television star Lili Estefan, host of El Gordo y la Flaca, and the grand-niece of Latin music legends Gloria and Emilio Estefan.
During the final gala, streamed on MegaTV and the Miss Universe YouTube channel, Luaces charmed the audience with her charisma and confidence. Asked what Cuban dessert she would be, she replied: "A pastelito de guayaba, tough on the outside, soft and sweet inside." But she didn't shy away from deeper questions, either. When asked what kind of leader she would be as Miss Cuba, she declared: "Being Cuban is my blood, my strength, my voice, my greatest pride."
Despite being born in the United States and speaking Spanish with an accent, Luaces made it clear she identifies as Cuban through and through. "I feel Cuban, not American," she said, addressing critics who questioned why she didn't compete for Miss USA or Miss America.
Family Support from the Estefans
The moment was especially emotional for the Estefan clan, who filled the audience with roaring applause. Gloria Estefan celebrated her grand-niece's victory on Instagram, writing:
"I'm so proud of my great-niece @linaluaces, our new #missuniversecuba2025! From welcoming you into the world to watching you blossom through life's highs and lows, it's been an honor. Your relentless dedication has brought you to this moment. You will make us proud in Thailand at #missuniverse2025! We love you endlessly!"
Her cousin Emily Estefan added, "My beautiful queen," alongside a celebratory Instagram Story post.
A Rising Star with a Strong Work Ethic
Lina Luaces began studying ballet at a young age and started modeling at 15. She was later signed by Mexico's Paragon Model Management. In February 2025, she walked for several designers at New York Fashion Week, signaling her entrance into high fashion.
Back in April, her mother Lili Estefan said she was deeply moved by her daughter's participation in the first Miss Universe Cuba casting call. "It fills me with pride to see her embrace our culture and traditions," Lili shared.
Despite her success, Luaces faced criticism on social media, with detractors claiming her popularity stemmed more from her famous relatives than her own merit. Others questioned her Cuban identity, citing her American birthplace and less-than-perfect Spanish.
But the Miss Universe Cuba organization stood by her. "Today, Cuba celebrates its queen," they wrote. "Today we crown not just a beautiful woman, but a symbol of strength, elegance, and determination."
Under the pageant's rules, contestants must either be born in Cuba or be of Cuban descent. Luaces, though raised in the U.S., fits the latter.
What's Next for Miss Universe Cuba?
Luaces now heads to Thailand to represent Cuba at the Miss Universe 2025 competition this November. Her journey will undoubtedly be watched closely by fans, critics, and the global Cuban community. With the support of the Estefans and a growing fan base, she's poised to become not only a symbol of Cuban beauty but of bicultural pride and resilience.
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