KATHMANDU: Organisers of the Miss Universe Nepal 2024 beauty pageant have announced Global IME Bank as the event’s official banking partner. The prestigious international beauty pageant Miss Universe made its debut in Nepal in 2020, the organisers said in a statement. Auditions for this year's Miss Universe Nepal 2024 are currently underway, with the grand finale scheduled for the last week of August.

The organizers of the event, Global Glamor Venture, reported an impressive turnout, marked by enthusiastic and inclusive participation from individuals of diverse backgrounds.

“This year’s auditions welcomed a wide array of participants, including married individuals, transgender individuals, Non-Resident Nepalis (NRNs), and professionals such as doctors, engineers, pilots, and more,” reads the statement, adding that 60 individuals have been selected in the initial stage of the application process following physical auditions.

The organisers added that 35 candidates will advance to the final training phase.

Speaking on this collaboration, Sangita Puri, national director of Global Glamor Venture, expressed excitement about the partnership, stating, "We are thrilled to have Global IME Bank as our Official Banking Partner for Miss Universe Nepal 2024. Their support underscores our commitment to promoting diversity and empowerment through this platform. This partnership is more than just a sponsorship; it is a union of two entities dedicated to uplifting and empowering the women of Nepal.”

Similarly, Dilip Pokharel. chief marketing officer of Global IME Bank said, "We are proud to support Miss Universe Nepal 2024, a platform that celebrates the empowerment and beauty of womanhood.”

He added that Global IME Bank is committed to initiatives that drive societal progress and empower women.

“Through our CSR programs like ‘Swastha Nari Pahal,’ a free women's health camp, and ‘Chhatralai Chhatrabritti,’ a scholarship for girl students, as well as the ‘Meri Unilai’ fixed deposit product, we aim to enhance women's access to education, health, and financial empowerment. This partnership reflects our dedication to uplifting and celebrating the diverse talents within our community.”

According to Global Glamor Venture, this year's training program features international-level trainers like Alexander Gonzalez, a respected image consultant and pageant choreographer, and Luis Portelis, an experienced pageant analyst.