A unique Miss France: Angélique Angarni-Filopon, the first thirty-something in history

An unprecedented event unfolded at the Miss France 2025 pageant, held on Saturday, December 14, at the Futuroscope in Poitiers. Angélique Angarni-Filopon, Miss Martinique 2024, was crowned queen of beauty. At 34 years old, this short-haired flight attendant made history as the first Miss France over 30 years old. This marks a significant shift in a competition that once restricted participation to candidates under 24.

A victory full of symbolism

In 2011, Angélique Angarni-Filopon competed in the Miss Martinique pageant and secured the first runner-up position. Thirteen years later, she defied age barriers to proudly represent Martinique and women who, like her, refuse to believe that it’s ever “too late.”

During her speech, she emphasized:

“In 2011, a young woman aged 20 finished as the first runner-up at the Miss Martinique pageant. Today, that same young woman, now 34, stands before you to once again represent Martinique, its diaspora, and all the women who have been told it’s too late.”

Despite the attention on her age and short hairstyle, Angélique prefers to be recognized for her vibrant energy and radiant smile. “Neither my hair nor my age defines me,” she stated.

An inspiring journey

Originally from Martinique, Angélique Angarni-Filopon grew up in Val-d’Oise before returning to her native island two years ago. She recalls a childhood marked by teasing about her appearance, particularly her height and teeth. Yet, she transformed those challenges into strength.

Describing herself as an ordinary young woman, she climbed the ranks through persistence. Her participation in the 2011 Miss Martinique pageant left her feeling there was unfinished business. When the age criteria were expanded, she seized the opportunity to compete again—and this time, she emerged victorious.

A committed queen

Throughout her campaign, Angélique highlighted her advocacy for breast cancer awareness, a cause close to her heart due to her mother’s battle with the disease. “Life has taught me that giving up is never an option,” she said. She hopes to support women affected by breast cancer by helping them rebuild their confidence.

She credits her natural confidence and determination to her father, a retired brigadier-chief, who instilled resilience in her and her siblings. The pride she saw in her parents’ eyes after her victory was a defining moment:

“In our family, we don’t say much, but we prove a lot. That’s the Antillean pride.”

The runners-up and the competition’s evolution

Joining Angélique were the runners-up of Miss France 2025, who also reflected the diversity and modernity of the pageant. Sabah Aïb, Miss Nord-Pas-de-Calais, aged 18, secured second place. She was followed by Stella Vangioni, Miss Corse (27 years old), Moïra André, Miss Guadeloupe (27 years old), and Lilou Emeline-Artuso, Miss Côte d’Azur (21 years old).

This historic victory marks a turning point for Miss France, showcasing its gradual openness to new perspectives and breaking away from traditional stereotypes. Angélique Angarni-Filopon now embodies this evolution with elegance and determination.