Metro Manila, Philippines: Shifali Jamwal gained attention for her dedication to sustainability during the 2025 Mrs Universe pageant, which took place in Manila, Philippines.

Representing the United States, Jamwal, an Indian-American environmental activist, was awarded the Mrs Ambition title for promoting eco-conscious practices throughout the contest.

During the eight-day competition, she exclusively wore outfits that were rented, borrowed, or pre-owned. This deliberate choice aimed to emphasise the importance of sustainability, even in the glamorous world of pageantry.

Speaking about her eco-friendly wardrobe on Instagram, she shared, "Every outfit I wore during the eight-day pageant was either rented, borrowed, or purchased secondhand. It wasn’t always easy, especially with so many shortcuts available, but I wanted to show that elegance and sustainability can coexist on a global stage."

Jamwal’s environmental advocacy was evident in her costume designs. She walked the ramp in a "glacier mountain halo" dress symbolising nature’s crown and an "icicle dress" that melted into water, drawing attention to the issue of rising sea levels affecting communities worldwide.

She competed with over 120 contestants from around the world at the 48th edition of Mrs Universe, hosted at Okada, Manila, Philippines.

After receiving the award, she expressed her excitement on Instagram, stating, "I’m honoured to receive the Ambition award at @mrsuniverseofficial. It means even more because I stayed committed to my environmental values throughout the pageant."

Shifali Jamwal is the daughter of Indian Army veteran Brigadier Raj Singh Jamwal and co-founded the sustainability-focused non-profit Live2Serve.

Meanwhile, Sherry Sikandar Singh from India was crowned Mrs Universe 2025.