From San Jose to the World Stage Athenna Crosby, a proud Californian with Venezuelan roots, is the face of the United States at the 72nd Miss World Pageant in Hyderabad, India, on May 31, 2025.
Crowned Miss World America 2024, Athenna’s journey is a testament to perseverance, passion, and purpose. Her story transcends the traditional pageant narrative, embodying a blend of cultural richness, advocacy, and multifaceted talent.
Representing a country as diverse as the United States, Athenna brings her personal story, bicultural identity, and bilingual voice to one of the most global stages in the world.
A Foundation Built on Communication and Culture
Raised in San Jose, California, Athenna pursued a Bachelor of Science in Communications at Utah Valley University.
This academic background laid the groundwork for her dynamic career as a TV host, entertainment correspondent, actress, and model. Her education in communications equipped her with skills in public speaking, media relations, and storytelling all essential for a public figure representing a nation on an international platform.
Her bilingual fluency in English and Spanish, coupled with her dual American-Venezuelan citizenship, allows her to connect authentically with diverse audiences, a vital asset on the Miss World stage.
In interviews, she has emphasized the importance of cultural pride, stating that her identity helps her represent more than one community, she represents many.
A Pageant Journey Marked by Determination
Athenna’s pageantry path began with her crowning as Miss California Teen USA in 2016, leading to a Top 15 finish at Miss Teen USA the same year. She continued to shine, securing Top 5 placements at Miss California USA in both 2022 and 2023.
Her persistence paid off when she was named 1st Runner-Up at Miss World America 2023, and ultimately clinched the national title in 2024. Her consistent recognition, including two “Miss Congeniality” awards, highlights her genuine warmth and camaraderie.
Her crowning moment was held in Burien, Washington, during an event organized by global pageant producers of South Asian descent.
That collaboration underscores the inclusivity the Miss World system aims to reflect: diverse, community-rooted, and globally relevant.
Advocacy Rooted in Personal Experience
Central to Athenna’s Miss World campaign is her “Beauty With a Purpose” project, “Inclusion for All: Fighting for Those With Disabilities.” Inspired by her younger brother Adrian, who has autism, Athenna has dedicated over a decade to advocating for disability rights.
Her work includes not only awareness but also impactful civic engagement. She successfully lobbied the city of San Jose to officially declare April as Autism Awareness Month, making her advocacy not just visible, but actionable. She’s also participated in inclusive events such as proms for neurodiverse youth and classroom visits that promote dignity and belonging.
This project, deeply personal and community-rooted, was recognized by the Miss World America organization, Athenna was named the National Ambassador for Beauty With a Purpose in 2023, a rare honor for someone who had not yet won the national title.
A Multifaceted Talent
Beyond the pageant realm, Athenna’s career spans various facets of the entertainment industry. She has hosted for platforms such as TikTok LIVE US, Hot In Hollywood on Tubi, and the Cinequest Film Festival. Her acting credits include commercials for Go2Bank and Hard Rock Hotel, while her modeling portfolio features campaigns for Disney Cookware and Monster Energy.
In 2023, she sang “Part of Your World” from The Little Mermaid during the Miss World America talent competition earning a spot in the Top 5 Talent finalists.
A gifted vocalist, Athenna has also performed the national anthem at a Giants vs. Padres MLB game and sang at the Dalai Lama’s 80th birthday celebration. This multi-platform talent gives her an edge at Miss World, where categories like Talent, Top Model, and Multimedia play critical roles.
Embracing the Miss World 2025 Experience
As she represents the United States at Miss World 2025, Athenna embraces the opportunity to connect with global audiences. Her participation in the Talent Challenge has yet to be confirmed for Miss World 2025, but her talent was previously showcased in national competitions.
She’s also demonstrated cultural sensitivity and openness while traveling in India, sharing her admiration for local traditions, fashion, and community warmth through her TikTok and Instagram platforms. Her digital presence, while modest in numbers, is rich in engagement and authenticity, she actively shares behind-the-scenes moments and interacts with followers.
Navigating Public Attention with Grace
Athenna’s association with the late actor Matthew Perry brought unexpected media attention. Demonstrating professionalism, she addressed the situation with a heartfelt statement, emphasizing Perry’s positive demeanor during their last meeting and dispelling unfounded rumors, as reported by Inside Edition.
Rather than let tabloids control the story, she took to her platform and spoke directly to the public applying both her journalism background and emotional intelligence. In doing so, she reinforced her reputation as a thoughtful, composed, and honest public figure.
Looking Ahead: A Vision for Inclusive Advocacy
While the Miss World title is a significant milestone, Athenna views it as a platform to amplify her lifelong commitment to disability advocacy. She envisions a future where her efforts lead to greater awareness, inclusion, and support for individuals with disabilities worldwide.
Her blend of cultural insight, communication skills, and heartfelt dedication positions her as a compelling advocate on the global stage. Whether she takes the Miss World crown or not, her story and her mission has already made a powerful impact, as seen in her community service at Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital.
Poll: Athenna Crosby at Miss World 2025
Join the Journey
Follow Athenna Crosby’s inspiring journey as she represents the United States at Miss World 2025. Stay connected through her official channels and support her mission to foster a more inclusive and compassionate world.
FAQ: Athenna Crosby at Miss World 2025
Who is representing the United States at Miss World 2025?
Athenna Crosby, crowned Miss World America 2024, is representing the United States at the 72nd Miss World Pageant in Hyderabad, India, on May 31, 2025.
Where and when is the Miss World 2025 pageant taking place?
The 72nd Miss World pageant will be held at the HITEX Exhibition Centre in Hyderabad, Telangana, India, on May 31, 2025.
What is Athenna Crosby’s Beauty With a Purpose project for Miss World 2025?
Athenna’s project, “Inclusion for All: Fighting for Those With Disabilities,” focuses on advocating for disability rights, inspired by her brother with autism.
What activities is Athenna Crosby involved in during Miss World 2025?
Athenna is participating in cultural events, community visits, and purpose-led presentations in Hyderabad, showcasing her advocacy and talents.
How does Athenna Crosby engage with audiences during Miss World 2025?
She shares her experiences in India, including admiration for local traditions, via TikTok and Instagram, fostering authentic engagement with followers.
TL;DR: Athenna Crosby at Miss World 2025
Athenna Crosby, Miss World America 2024, represents the USA at Miss World 2025 in Hyderabad, India, on May 31, 2025, advocating for disability rights.