Women behind the lens: In Venezuela, the culture of pageants goes far beyond beauty'
Briefly

Venezuela is known for holding two significant world records: the most international beauty crowns and the largest proven oil reserves. Both aspects are interconnected through their representation of progress and modernity. Amidst economic crisis, beauty pageants remain a major cultural event, providing women a chance to escape poverty. Participants find empowerment and opportunities in pageants, which act as a stepping stone to careers in various fields. While beauty standards posed by pageants can be harmful, many women feel liberated by embodying idealized characters.
Venezuela holds two world records: the most international beauty crowns and the largest proven oil reserves, tied to progress, modernity, and power.
Beauty pageants are a platform for personal progress and a potential escape from poverty, especially for women amid economic turmoil.
Despite imposing damaging beauty standards, Venezuelan women find liberation in their pageant personas, using them as a route to public recognition and career opportunities.
Participating in beauty pageants transforms lives, with many students from low-income families seeking recognition that can lead to careers in various industries, including politics.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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