Miss Universe 2023 Sheynnis Palacios has expressed her love for New York while discussing her New Year's resolutions.

"I love the excitement of New York City, especially for Christmas. All the decorations reminded me of that feeling of joy we all experience during the holidays as a child. And I saw snow for the very first time!" said Sheynnis, who was crowned Miss Universe 2023 in El Salvador last Nov. 18. She flew to New York where she will fulfill her reign as 72nd Miss Universe.

She added: "Reflecting back on my first month as Miss Universe, it is impossible to choose a favorite moment. It was a month full of surprises and new experiences. I explored New York, traveled to Indonesia, and I had my first official photoshoot as Miss Universe…plus a whole lot of unofficial ones!"

"I remember arriving in my new apartment for the first time – the rooms are decorated with pictures of former Miss Universes on the walls, and as I placed the crown on my bed it really sunk in, “Wow. I am Miss Universe." 

The Nicaraguan beauty queen also shared her New Year's resolutions.

"The new year not only marks the beginning of 2024 for me, but signifies a fresh start on this brand new journey as Miss Universe. Therefore, my New Year’s resolutions this year have become Miss Universe resolutions. 

At the top of the list is removing the stigma of mental health, so we can eliminate the fear of talking about our emotional well-being. I want to help people feel confident and comfortable opening their hearts and allowing themselves to talk without fear. 

"That is the only way we can take responsibility and control of our mental health. I look forward to doing more with this platform in the coming months – do you want to help? Let us know!

"I want to thank all of the people who have shown their affection through social media, and all of the fans who celebrated my triumph with me. They are a huge source of motivation for me," she said.

Sheynnis also thanked her countrymen for their love and support during her pageant journey.

"I also want to thank my family for their unconditional support, and my country Nicaragua for filling me with so much love and happiness. Thank you for celebrating this collective triumph with me, I hope it has filled you with the same pride and joy that I feel," she also said.