The tragic death of Sherika de Armas, former Miss World candidate, at age 26

Consternation in the beauty pageant industry due to the sudden death of Sherika de Armas, Miss Uruguay and candidate for Miss World in 2015. She lost her life to cancer at the age of 26.

The sad news that Sherika de Armas had died from cervical cancer came in mid October 2023. She had been suffering from the disease for more than two years.

Photo: @loladls19 / Instagram

At age 18, Sherika was crowned Miss Uruguay. The young model claimed that winning the crown was a dream to her and that she hoped to be considered the most beautiful woman in the world.

Photo: @universalbeautyof / Instagram

The model represented Uruguay in 2015 in the Miss World pageant held in China. "I always wanted to be a model, whether in beauty, advertising or on the catwalk. I like everything related to fashion... I am very happy to be able to live this experience," she said at the time.

Photo: @missworldloveme / Instagram

Despite her talent and beauty, Sherika didn't make it to the final 30 in the Miss World pageant. After her year as Miss Uruguay, the model decided to continue her path in the world of beauty and fashion as a businesswoman.

Photo: @sheydearmas.studio / Instagram

With the 'Shey de Armas Beauty Studio,' a company that was focused on personal care and beauty products, the former Miss Uruguay made a name for herself. The venture that was widely acclaimed for its emphasis on natural beauty.

Photo: @sheydearmas.studio / Instagram

Sherika also remained committed to social causes. The model was a volunteer at the Pérez Scremini Foundation and showed her commitment to the fight against childhood cancer.

Photo: @sheydearmas.studio / Instagram

Her brother, Mayk de Armas, shared an emotional farewell message on his social media after Sherika died. He confirmed the sad news of her passing and said: "No more pain, have a good trip. I will love you forever."

Photo: Mayk de Armas / Facebook

Lola De los Santos, Miss Uruguay 2021, also dedicated an emotional farewell message to Sherika: "I will always remember you, not only for all the support you gave me and how much you wanted to see me grow, but for your love, your joy, [and] the friends that we share who remain with you today."

Photo: @loladls19 / Instagram

Carla Romero, the current Miss Uruguay, also paid tribute to Sherika, calling the former Miss "Too evolved for this world. One of the most beautiful women I have ever met in my life." Romero competes in this year's Miss World pageant in December 2023.

Photo: @carlaromerovs / Instagram