Kseniya Alexandrova, a Russian model and television personality who gained international recognition as a contestant in the 2017 Miss Universe competition, has died at the age of 30.

Her passing was confirmed by her modeling agency, Modus Vivendis, in an emotional Instagram post on August 13. The agency did not disclose the cause of death but paid tribute to Alexandrova’s life and legacy.

“Kseniya was bright, talented, and extraordinarily kind,” the agency wrote. “She knew how to inspire, support, and give warmth to everyone around her. For us, she will forever remain a symbol of beauty, kindness, and inner strength.”

According to reports in Russian media, Alexandrova died in a tragic car accident on the M9 highway.

Her husband, whose name has not been publicly released, told RIA Novosti that the couple’s vehicle collided head-on with a moose that had wandered onto the road, causing Alexandrova a fatal head injury. The couple had married just months earlier, in March, an event Alexandrova shared with her followers on Instagram in April.

Born in Moscow, Alexandrova first rose to prominence as a contestant in the 2017 Miss Russia competition, where she earned the title of first runner-up. Her success in the national pageant led her to represent Russia on the global stage at Miss Universe 2017, stepping in after the Miss Russia winner, Polina Popova, opted to compete in Miss World. During the Miss Universe competition, Alexandrova expressed a message of encouragement and resilience.

“I want people all around the world to believe in themselves and to always have a dream,” she said, in an interview translated from Russian. “We should be strong and believe in ourselves and never give up on our dreams. In this world, everything is possible.”

Alexandrova’s accomplishments extended beyond modeling. In 2016, she graduated from the Plekhanov Russian University of Economics with a degree in finance. Following her pageant career, she continued her studies and professional development, later training as a psychodrama therapist, a field she highlighted in a November 2022 Instagram post.

The Miss Universe Organization paid tribute to Alexandrova on Instagram on August 14, offering condolences to her family, friends, and fans.

“Her grace, beauty, and spirit left an unforgettable mark on the Miss Universe family and beyond,” the organization wrote. “May her memory continue to inspire kindness, strength, and love in all those who were fortunate enough to know her.”

Alexandrova’s life, though tragically cut short, was marked by ambition, compassion, and a drive to inspire others. From her early achievements in modeling to her dedication to helping others through therapy, she leaves behind a legacy of both inner and outer beauty, reminding the world of the importance of pursuing dreams with courage and heart.