A Drohobych native to walk the runway in a gown from Gasanova, a brand favored by the presidential family.
Ukrainian Adriana Pushchak, originally from Drohobych, will represent the state of Illinois at one of the most prestigious beauty pageants in the USA — Ms World America 2025, which will take place in Miami from August 24 to 28. She will compete in the 30+ category.
Her participation gains special symbolism due to the date — the first day of the pageant falls on August 24, Ukraine’s Independence Day. On this very day, Adriana will step before the American jury in a look that combines style and national pride — a gown by Ukrainian designer Elvira Gasanova (brand Damirli), whose creations are worn by the First Lady and the family of the President of Ukraine.
“It’s symbolic that the first day of the pageant falls on the Independence Day of my country. With this, I wanted to support Ukraine, to show that no matter where you are — even on an American stage — your roots, your land that you’re proud of, always live within you. My country is free and independent, and that strength is always with me,” the contestant comments.
The collaboration with the designer began after Adriana’s previous pageant, where she won the title Ms Petite USA Universe 2025, and the next day woke up to offers from American media.
“For me, participation in a pageant is about showing that every woman can pursue her dreams, no matter what. It’s not only about the crown or the title. A true queen is one who has value and a mission to share with others. My global goal is to inspire women to believe in themselves, to unlock their potential, and to achieve more than they ever imagined. I want to show that even in a new country, you can step on stage, make a statement, and leave a mark. I never thought a beauty pageant could attract such attention. After my performance, millions of people saw my story — some admired, some congratulated, some criticized. But the main thing is that I was able to convey an emotion to everyone. And to show by my own example that every woman is worth more,” Adriana adds.
Background
Adriana Pushchak — Ms Petite USA Universe 2025, leader of the Ukrainian diaspora and beauty expert. Born in Drohobych, she is a psychologist by education and a champion of Ukraine, Italy, and Spain in the field of permanent makeup. After moving to the United States in 2022, she built a successful career in the beauty industry and became an influential figure among Ukrainian women abroad.
In 2025, she earned the title Ms Illinois and at the Ms/Mrs Universe Pageant in Las Vegas received the crown of Miss Petite USA Universe 2025, became the first runner-up Ms USA Universe, and placed in the Top-3 of the “People’s Choice” nomination. She is included in the Top-50 most influential women of Lviv region.
