Iuliia Bazhan represented New York State at the Ms. Globe USA Finals, held on June 21, 2025, in Palm Springs, California. Her participation followed what she describes as an unexpected path to the stage; she decided to enter the competition just two weeks before the finals after hearing about it from another model at her agency who was also planning to participate.

Delegates from nearly all 50 states gathered in California for a week of rehearsals, events, and onstage presentations. The schedule was demanding, with long days that often ended late at night and resumed again early the following morning. The competition was streamed online and followed closely across pageant media.

One of the most notable moments of the finals came during the evening gown segment. Wearing a hand-crafted gown by designer Gianina Azar, Bazhan Iuliia  delivered a confident walk in one of the heaviest dresses of the night and received a nomination for Best Evening Gown, which was seen as a recognition of her poise.

As part of the program, contestants were given time for a short onstage presentation. Representing New York, Iuliia approached this segment with ease, drawing on her extensive stage experience. A former Ukrainian national champion in ballroom dancing, she appeared comfortable under the lights and was often seen offering reassurance and support to other contestants ahead of their appearances.

During her presentation, Iuliia briefly shared her personal story. She spoke about being told at the age of four that she would never speak or attend a regular school. “And then you find yourself speaking on a national stage,” she said. Her remarks stood out for their simplicity and timing, particularly given how reserved she had remained throughout much of the week. The speech later earned her a nomination for the ‘ I CAN Award ‘, which recognizes personal stories shared during the competition.

The timing of the finals also coincided with iuliia’s birthday on June 28. What she expected to pass quietly after her recent move to the United States became part of the pageant week. During the evening program, a cake with candles was brought onstage, and she made a wish related to her advocacy for autistic children.

Reflecting on the experience, Bazhan Iuliia later said, “A crown doesn’t change who you are, but it does change how people hear you. My words carry more weight now, and I want to use that for something meaningful.” The finals concluded in front of an international judging panel of nearly 20 judges from different countries, marking the end of an intensive competition week that brought together delegates from across the United States.

Following the final announcements and onstage moments, the evening transitioned into closing events and conversations among contestants, organizers and judges. Bazhan Iuliia continues her work as an international model while remaining actively involved in advocacy for early developmental support for autistic children.

About Iuliia Bazhan

Iuliia Bazhan is an international model whose career spans Europe, Asia, and the United States. She has appeared at major fashion weeks, including shows in Paris, Milan, New York, and London. Her work has been featured in publications such as Harper’s Bazaar, Vogue, Cosmopolitan, Glamour, Artells, Marylebone, Gizna, and others.

Alongside modeling, she is known for her advocacy for autistic children, focusing on early developmental support and public awareness. Iuliia currently holds the title Miss New York 2025 and represented her state at the Ms. Globe USA finals.

Iuliia Bazhan shares updates on her international work and public initiatives via Instagram @bazhan_ulia, with further information about her advocacy available through @evoautism.