World is Limerick model Aideen’s oyster after winning Miss Universe Ireland
Aideen Howard, 22, will now represent Ireland on the world stage at the Miss Universe global final
A LIMERICK student and model was crowned Miss Universe Ireland at a glittering ceremony on Saturday night.
Aideen Howard, aged 22, of Castletroy, was chosen by judges as the overall winner at the event at the Bonnington Hotel in Dublin.
Aideen was joined on stage by young women from all over the country including two finalists from Limerick who also did their county proud - Natalia Rybakowska, aged 19, from Adare, and Leah Marie Sheehan, 23, of Annacotty. Indeed, it was a double celebration as Leah Marie was named first runner-up.
Aideen is currently studying Marketing and French in college and also works as a model with the Holman Lee Agency and with takeaway restaurant Bunda Brothers on their social media. She loves fashion, travel, and meeting people from different backgrounds.
Aideen was born in Boston and moved to Limerick when she was 12-years-old. She is incredibly family-oriented and the second oldest of four siblings.
"My family and friends have always been my biggest support system, and I have also always had a huge love for animals. Supporting vulnerable children and young people is a cause close to my heart.
“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," said Aideen.
The 22-year-old’s dream is to one day create her own business and build a career that she genuinely enjoys and is 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 would be incredibly proud to represent Ireland while staying true to the values that matter most to me."
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. Miss Universe Ireland 2025 Aadya Srivastava crowned Aideen who will go on to represent Ireland at the 75th much anticipated Miss Universe 2025 final where women from more than 100 countries will compete for the coveted title.
Miss Universe Ireland will follow in the footsteps of previous winners Roz Purcell, Joanna Copper, Dancing with the Stars alum Aishah Akorede and Sofia Labus.
The winner of Miss Universe Ireland 2026 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 Miss Universe Organization (MUO) is a global, inclusive organisation that celebrates all cultures, backgrounds and religions. The organisation is entering an important chapter in its history as it prepares to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the Miss Universe competition, a milestone that reflects decades of global influence, cultural relevance, and an enduring commitment to empowerment.