A decade after the crown: Maxine Medina's journey beyond Miss Universe

 


Ten years have passed since Maxine Medina graced the Miss Universe stage as the Philippines’ representative in 2016. Today, Maxine radiates fulfillment, thriving in new roles far beyond the pageant spotlight.

While many beauty queens set their sights on the next competition, Maxine blazed her own trail. She’s embraced motherhood, pursued a career in acting, and carved out a niche in the booming world of online selling. The pageant chapter of her life is closed, and she’s content to leave it behind.

At the launch of DM Studios, an agency for live commerce and influencer collaboration founded by Diane Medina and Rodjun Cruz, Maxine reflected on her pageant journey. “I’m happy to judge and give advice, but joining another pageant? Not for now,” she said with a smile.

Pageantry was never her goal. “I never dreamed of joining pageants,” Maxine admitted. “It was a huge leap when I joined Binibining Pilipinas and Miss Universe. Even my family was surprised, since I was always camera-shy. But their support meant everything.”

Modeling wasn’t part of her original plan either. Yet once she stepped in front of the camera, encouragement from those around her led her to try pageantry. “I was terrified during Binibining Pilipinas, but grateful for all the supporters,” she recalled.

Maxine Medina and family

Maxine credits the experience with building her confidence. “I never saw myself as the beauty queen type, but joining gave me a sense of self-assurance I never had before.”

For aspiring beauty queens, her advice is simple: “Pursue your dreams. Be yourself and stay authentic. Explore every opportunity, because it might only come once.”

Looking back, Maxine is candid about the challenges she faced. “Today’s beauty queens start as early as 16—they’re impressive. I was already 21 when I started. It wasn’t my dream, but I wanted to see where it would take me.”

Now, pageantry is in her past. Her focus is on her family. “My priority now is my baby. Mommy duties come first,” she shared.

At 35, Maxine is married to Timothy Llana, and they are raising their son, Mateus Ezekiel—affectionately called Zeke. She describes motherhood as both demanding and rewarding. “I salute all moms. Motherhood isn’t easy, and I admire young mothers who work so hard.”


Maxine Medina, Diane Medina, and Rodjun Cruz


Asked about having more children, Maxine smiled, “Yes, maybe one more.”

Maxine’s post-pageant career is flourishing. She’s become a successful live seller, once earning up to P4 million in a single night. She acknowledges that her background as a beauty queen gives her an edge, especially in beauty and parenting categories. “I share tips and advice based on my experience,” she explained.

Show business also remains an open door. Having made a mark with her acting debut in 2018’s “Hanggang Saan,” and subsequent roles in “Los Bastardos” and “First Yaya,” Maxine hinted at the possibility of future television projects.

A decade after her Miss Universe journey, Maxine Medina continues to reinvent herself, proving that life after the crown can be just as dazzling—and even more meaningful.

Main photo credit: Maxine Medina (Instagram)

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