Veterinary student Veera Grönlund crowned Miss Finland
In the Finnish city of Espoo, 30-year-old veterinary student Veera Grönlund won the title of Miss Finland. She was crowned on Saturday, September 5, 2026, at the Hype-hybridiareena. Grönlund said she entered the competition to use the publicity and responsibility associated with the title to help animals.
Helping animals
Grönlund is studying to become a veterinarian, follows a vegan diet and lives with two rescued dogs, Nana and Aida. The idea to take part in the competition came after a conversation with her mother about the public visibility that Miss Finland has.
As part of the competition's charity project, Grönlund organized a pet food distribution for people with low incomes. The Rekku Rescue and Meidän Eläinsäätiö organizations took part in the event. According to Grönlund, veterinary services and animal food can be expensive. She said she plans to continue the project in winter.
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The public role of contestants
As YLE News reports, the modern Miss Finland competition focuses not only on contestants' appearance, but also on their public communication skills and social media presence. Contestants complete the More than Beauty Academy program, where they learn to speak publicly, work on their personal brand and engage with the media, as well as define their own values and the topics they want to influence.
Grönlund said she is pleased to have won at the age of 30 rather than 20. She believes that at this age she is better prepared for the feedback that accompanies a public role.
