Hi friends!! My name is Hayatte Abebe, and I’m ecstatic to be your newly crowned National United Miss 2024-2025! I’m over the moon and cannot wait to start making a difference and leaving a lasting legacy. I’m currently finishing up my accelerated master's degree, majoring in criminal justice with a minor in forensic science, to pursue my dream career of becoming an FBI agent.

My passion for community service truly shines through my initiative, Hope4Homes, where I passionately advocate for the underserved in my community. My all-time favorite event I host is the Easter basket drive, where we bring joy to the children at my hometown’s Children’s Hospital.

I absolutely love to travel and have set a goal to zipline in every new country I visit. My favorite ziplining experience was in Cancun, where I got to do it upside down! Being an outdoor enthusiast living in Buffalo, NY, I’m lucky to have access to so many breathtaking hiking trails.

My journey with IUM began two years ago when I won my New York State pageant. Preparing for internationals that year, I placed 2nd runner up to the title, and in that moment, I knew I had found my forever home. I met some of the kindest people that entire week and knew I couldn’t miss out on this opportunity the next year. 

IUM truly aligns with my values and emphasizes the importance of community service and being your authentic self. It is like no other system. The sisterhood bond you create with girls from around the country is a feeling that can’t be put into words. You instantly feel so welcomed with open arms, creating a family. Once you get bit by the IUM bug, there’s no going back!