The representative of Peru, Josiane Sciotti, faced criticism after her performance in the Dances of the World parade at Miss World 2026, where she presented an outfit inspired by the llamerada from Puno. Users from Bolivia questioned the cultural appropriation of the costume, arguing that this cultural expression belongs to their country.
The event, which took place on September 2 in Vietnam, brought together 110 contestants who showcased traditional dances and attire from their respective nations. Josiane Sciotti, 19 years old, a Medical student and model, opted for a costume that represents the llamerada, associated with the muleteers and shepherds of the highland region of Puno. Her presentation sparked intense debate on social media, with Bolivian users pointing out that the llamerada is part of their traditions, especially in the context of the Carnival of Oruro. On the other hand, Sciotti’s defenders claimed that there are cultural expressions shared between both countries.
This debate arises just three days before the pageant’s final, scheduled for September 5 in Nha Trang, Vietnam, which marks the 75th anniversary of Miss World and will choose the successor of Thailand’s Suchata Chuangsri. Sciotti explained that her choice of costume aims to showcase a part of Peruvian Andean identity to the world, emphasizing that every detail of the outfit reflects the history of the communities dedicated to caring for llamas and alpacas, animals crucial to Andean culture.
The llamerada from Puno was declared National Cultural Heritage in 2024, and Sciotti stated that her participation in Miss World seeks to share a significant aspect of her cultural roots. “Bringing this dance to Miss World was my way of sharing a piece of my country with the world,” emphasized the model.
The criticisms focused on the origins of the costume and the dance, with some accusations of cultural appropriation by the Peruvian delegation. However, from Peru, supporters of the candidate highlighted that Puno has its own llamerada tradition, which led to exchanges regarding the history and folklore of the Andean region. So far, there have been no official statements from the Miss World 2026 organization or Bolivian authorities regarding the attire of the Peruvian representative.
Josiane Sciotti arrived at this pageant after participating in youth competitions, having been the runner-up of Teen Petite Mesoamerica 2025 and a finalist in Miss Teen World 2025. The final of the contest will be held in the Plaza 2 de Abril in Nha Trang, as the debate over her traditional costume and the cultural connection between Peru and Bolivia continues.
Source: www.infobae.com
