Giselle Rosales, a Cuban national who has lived in Ecuador since the age of seven, was crowned Miss Ecuador 2025. Following her victory, she was granted Ecuadorian citizenship and will now represent the country at the Miss International 2026 pageant.

Rosales won the Miss Ecuador 2025 title in August, a triumph that has generated mixed reactions across the South American nation. On September 17, she received Ecuadorian citizenship through a presidential decree, officially qualifying her to compete internationally.
Now 21 years old, Rosales has resided in the city of San Antonio de Machala since emigrating from Cuba with her mother and uncles as a child. Her connection to Ecuador runs deep, shaped by over 14 years of life in the country.
According to local outlet Primicias, Rosales began participating in beauty competitions early on. As a teenager, she won Fashion Weekend Ecuador, launching a career in modeling and pageantry. In 2022, she was crowned Queen of Machala.
Standing 1.69 meters tall with green eyes, Rosales also holds academic degrees in Psychology and Education. Following President Daniel Noboa’s decision to grant her citizenship, she is set to represent Ecuador at the Miss International competition in Tokyo.
Addressing the controversy surrounding her roots, Rosales told Ecuadorian media: “At no point in my life have I said that I was born in Ecuador, because it’s not true—and why lie? … I have lived here since I was 7, and I am now 21.”
She has also spoken openly about her family’s reasons for leaving Cuba, explaining that they came to Ecuador seeking "a better life, a better future, because it’s no secret to anyone the difficulties that exist in certain countries."
Frequently Asked Questions about Giselle Rosales and Miss Ecuador 2025
Who is Giselle Rosales, the current Miss Ecuador 2025?
Giselle Rosales is a young Cuban who was crowned Miss Ecuador 2025. She arrived in Ecuador at the age of seven and recently obtained Ecuadorian citizenship. At 21 years old, Rosales will represent Ecuador in the Miss International 2026 pageant.
Why has Giselle Rosales's selection as Miss Ecuador sparked controversy?
The choice of Giselle Rosales has generated mixed opinions because she is of Cuban origin and was crowned Miss Ecuador before obtaining Ecuadorian citizenship. However, she has lived in Ecuador since childhood and has participated in numerous beauty contests in the country.
What studies and background does Giselle Rosales have?
Giselle Rosales has studied Psychology and Education. From a young age, she has participated in beauty and modeling contests in Ecuador. She won the Fashion Weekend Ecuador and has excelled in other beauty pageants.
What has Giselle Rosales declared about her identity and nationality?
Giselle Rosales has been clear about her identity, stating: "At no point in my life have I said that I was born in Ecuador." She acknowledges her Cuban roots, but she also feels a connection to Ecuador, where she has lived for most of her life.
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