Message from Armi Williams (former Hilario, former Kuusela) Miss Universe 1952

First Miss Universe - Armi Kuusela of Finland

I arrived in the Philippines in February 1953 as a young and impressionable Miss Universe to attend the official opening ceremonies of the first international fair in Manila. I was completely overwhelmed by the outpouring enthusiasm, warmth and adoration of the crowds of people wherever I went. I had never expected anything quite so magnificent – nor the extraordinary and special arrangements that were made to make me feel welcome and comfortable.