Miss Universe Philippines, Michelle Dee, talks about growing up in Utah

MANILA — Michelle Dee, known for her captivating looks, toned physique, and remarkable poise, wins the crown for Miss Universe Philippines 2023. However, her path to the prestigious competition was far from predictable. Michelle herself acknowledges that she was once a spirited girl who grew up on a ranch.

During in an interview, Michelle shared how her childhood experiences in Utah shaped her into the person she is today. “I feel like it really curated me into the person that I am now,” she reflected. Growing up on a ranch, she developed a deep love for animals and embraced various adventurous activities. Her skills ranged from riding ATVs to grooming horses, herding cows, shaving goats, and milking animals.

One memorable incident she recalled was when, as an eight-year-old, she fearlessly drove in fourth gear despite being instructed to stay in second gear by her stepfather. This daring move resulted in a broken arm, a testament to her fearless spirit even at a young age.

Michelle credits her upbringing in a small town with a population of 6,000 to 7,000 people for instilling in her a strong sense of independence. The experience taught her that personal achievements require hard work and self-reliance rather than depending on others for success. At the age of 15, she returned to the Philippines after spending a significant portion of her childhood on her family’s ranch in Utah, United States.

As Michelle Dee competes on the global stage, her journey from a wild ranch girl to representing the Philippines in Miss Universe showcases the formative influence of her unconventional upbringing. Her love for animals, spirit of adventure, and unwavering determination have undoubtedly played a crucial role in shaping her into the remarkable individual she is today.