Miss Universe Belize: ‘She’s Representing Us All’

As Belizean beauty Halima Hoy prepares for the Miss Universe finals tomorrow, her support team is brimming with pride and hope. In an exclusive interview with News 5, Destiny Arnold, Belize’s National Director, and Halima’s husband, Arthur Hoy Jr., opened up about the journey leading up to this moment and their thoughts on the pageant so far.

Arnold shared her excitement for Halima’s performance on Thursday night and overwhelming support so far: “I am just elated with all of the support that we have been getting from our countrymen,” Arnold said. “I am so proud of Halima for continuing to fight that good fight and leaving her all on that stage.”

According to Arnold, their efforts are focused on bringing economic benefits to Belize through the Miss Universe platform. “Pageantry is not a cheap venture, and we don’t get into pageantry hoping to make money. It’s definitely a passion project, but we’re trying to change that perspective. We’re not trying to continue to allow pageantry to be a money pit,” Arnold said.

Arnold praised the Belizean national costume, which celebrated the deer dance while promoting climate change awareness. She said, “The universe public has loved this costume.” Halima’s swimsuit performance also stood out, said Arnold. “She was confident. She was graceful. That’s where she shines the most.” The evening gown, designed by Belizean designer Cesar Funez, was another highlight of the competition.

Looking ahead to tomorrow’s final performance, Arnold urged Belizeans to keep supporting Halima. “I just hope that we spend our time wisely and spend our time uplifting instead of tearing down… She’s representing Belize. It’s not Halima Hoy; it’s Belize,” she stated. “We want to see her with the crown on her head.”

Belizeans are encouraged to support Halima by voting for her through the Choicely app, sharing her pictures, and leaving encouraging comments on social media. “We are the fuel that drives her when she’s on stage, so we have to keep that energy going.”