Miss Universe Israel 2025, Melanie Shiraz, spoke with The Jerusalem Post about her journey from tech to tiaras — and how her academic and professional background shaped her approach to representing Israel on the global stage. With a degree in data science from the University of California, Berkeley, Shiraz first encountered stark anti-Israel sentiment on campus, prompting her to become deeply involved in Jewish student life and Israeli advocacy.
Campus activism meets cultural diplomacy
This early activism laid the groundwork for her return to the public sphere in a very different forum: the Miss Universe pageant. “After the war began, I felt like something was missing,” Shiraz said. “I wanted to use my voice again.” Seeing how platforms like Eurovision offer cultural visibility beyond politics, she recognized Miss Universe as a unique opportunity to bring a human face to Israel amid international scrutiny.
A prideful representation on the global stage
“I wanted to show a different side of Israel — one that isn’t just about assemblies and politics,” she said. After Israel’s brief hiatus from the competition, Shiraz proudly stepped into the role, determined to offer a strong and nuanced representation of her country. Speaking from Thailand, she emphasized that her goal is not only to compete but to stand as a cultural ambassador, using her presence to foster dialogue and national pride.