Anouk’s slogan for Miss Universe, “Imperfection has no limits,” reflects her belief that true beauty can be found in every unique detail, every story, and every person. This is a message she embodies not only on the pageant stage but also in her everyday life. As a professional working with children with special needs, Anouk understands the importance of creating a world where everyone feels seen and valued. “It’s a privilege to be their voice and an even greater privilege to learn from their strength.”

She has become a different kind of Miss Universe—one who is always on the go, with a packed schedule that includes photo sessions, public appearances, and advocacy work. “Being Miss Universe Aruba is not just about wearing a crown; it’s about becoming a spokesperson for a message that has the power to change lives,” Anouk says. Her commitment to representing Aruba with pride and compassion has made her a true ambassador of the island, a role she embraces with an open heart.

Anouk’s vision is clear: she wants to push for more inclusivity in the beauty industry, and she’s making efforts to show that beauty pageants can be more than just appearances. “If we can change even one person’s perspective on what beauty is, we are already winning,” she reflects.

As she prepares to step onto the world stage of Miss Universe this month, Anouk extends her gratitude to Xclusivo Magazine and Swift Distribution for helping bring her vision to life. Featured alongside her favorite products—La Roche-Posay for skincare and Revlon for makeup—this cover celebrates not only Anouk’s beauty but also her spirit, strength, and mission to create a more inclusive world.

My name is Isla, and I am almost 9 years old. I was born 3 months early, and on my 5th day of life, I suffered a brain bleed, mainly in the part of my brain that controls movement. Because of this, I have spastic cerebral palsy that affects my whole body. This means that my arms and legs become stiff when I get excited or when I try to do something, like write or hold a fork. Because of this, I also cannot walk, so I am in a wheelchair. My days are different from those of other kids my age. I go to a school for children with special needs, and then I have different types of therapies in the afternoon. But despite these differences, I am always happy.

I work hard, and I know what it means for people to be proud of me. I keep learning and getting better at my skills. I capture the hearts of everyone around me. For my parents, being my parents is something incredible; I bring them so much joy and love. When Anouk approached us with her theme, we knew we had to participate. We want to share the message with our island and the whole world that it’s important to understand what it means to be different. "There is nothing wrong with being different because being different is just as beautiful as not being different."

My name is Willow-Mae. From the time I was 3 months in my mom’s belly, we found out that I would be born with a ‘limb difference,’ which means that my left arm didn’t fully develop. At first, it was difficult news for my parents, because they knew how cruel the world can be when it comes to bullying, and they were worried about whether I would be able to do everything like others with two complete arms.

When Anouk offered us the opportunity for me to be part of her story for Xclusivo, we were very happy. It’s not every day that someone gets the chance to do a photoshoot for Xclusivo alongside Miss Universe Aruba, and to show our community that despite my situation, I am a beautiful and joyful human being. It makes us very happy that in the future, when I am older, I will be able to look back at this portrait and story of myself with Miss Universe Aruba.

My name is Tamarah D. Croes-Arends, and I have a condition called Vitiligo. When I was 6 years old, my mother took me to Valencia, Venezuela, where I was treated by a Homeopathic doctor. The treatment consisted of acupuncture (which was very painful). I also had to take natural medicine. I have to say that it gave good results, but eventually, I told my mother: “That’s enough, I don’t want this anymore.” As always, every mother wants the best for her child.

When I turned 15, my mother took me to Cuba. The treatments there didn’t work in my case either. In Aruba, I also went to different doctors. Each doctor told me something different, recommending another treatment. I tried different medications, such as creams, liquids, vitamins, almost cured pig liver, many herbal remedies, and UVB light. I was also advised to buy certain makeup to cover the spots. The most bizarre advice I received was to cover my Vitiligo with tattoos.

I was pleasantly surprised because no one had ever asked me about this before, at least not anymore. It’s nice to share my “story” as well. I feel honored that Anouk thought of me for this project.

After my second child was born, it became very visible on my face, which hit me hard. I asked my son what he thought about it; he answered: “Mom, you are beautiful.” What more could I want at that moment? My husband tells me the same thing, and he experienced how I grew through it, and it doesn’t affect him. I don’t see Vitiligo as an imperfection. Vitiligo doesn’t have to define who you are or your worth. It is part of my life journey, and of everyone who is unique. I have accepted it. It’s simply part of my identity—this is me!