A Limerick student of Marketing and French at University of Limerick, who also works as a model, was crowned Miss Universe Ireland at the Bonnington Hotel in Dublin at a glittering ceremony on Saturday night, June 20th.
22 year old Aideen Howard from Castletroy in Limerick, a lover of fashion, travel, and meeting people from different backgrounds, was born in Boston but her family moved back to Limerick when she was 12 years old. Incredibly family-oriented and the second oldest of four siblings, Aideen’s dad is from Limerick and her mother hails from Galway.
“My family and friends have always been my biggest support system. Supporting vulnerable children and young people is a cause close to my heart,” she said on the night. “I understand how important kindness, encouragement, and a sense of belonging can be. I hope to use my voice and experiences to encourage more compassion, inclusion, and support for young people who may be going through difficult circumstances. I have also always had a huge love for animals and feel strongly about protecting their welfare” she continued.
SMALLEST ACTS – ‘MAKING A DIFFERENCE’
Finalists from all over Ireland competed for the coveted Miss Universe Ireland crown at a spectacular ceremony with special guest performances from BFamous Stage School.
As winner of Miss Universe Ireland 2026, Aideen will receive an exclusive prize package along with the honour of representing Ireland on the world stage at the prestigious Miss Universe global final. The Limerick lady said she will stay true to the values that matter the most to her.
“My dream is to one day create my own business and build a career that I genuinely enjoy and am proud of. A huge motivation for me is to be able to give back to my parents and make them proud of everything they have done for me. Above all, I want to be someone young people can look up to as proof that confidence and self-belief can grow over time.
“I believe even the smallest acts of kindness can make a lasting difference, and I hope to always be someone who uplifts and empowers others. For me, Miss Universe Ireland is about far more than appearance or a title. It is an opportunity to represent resilience, kindness, and personal growth while positively using my voice. I am incredibly proud to represent Ireland while staying true to the values that matter most to me.”
Miss Universe Ireland 2025, Aadya Srivastava (19) from Galway, crowned Aideen who will go on to represent Ireland at the 75th much anticipated Miss Universe 2025 final in Peurto Rico where women from more than 100 countries will compete for the coveted title and reigning Miss Universe, Fátima Bosch Fernández of Mexico, will crown her successor.
Miss Universe Ireland has become an increasingly influential platform for ambitious young women in Ireland, opening doors in modelling, media, business, advocacy and international representation.
