The world’s first AI beauty pageant has crowned its inaugural Miss AI, Kenza Layli, a Moroccan virtual influencer created entirely by AI.
Selected from 10 finalists unveiled last month, Layli, designed by Myriam Bessa of Phoenix AI agency, boasts nearly 200,000 Instagram followers and 45,000 on TikTok.
Layli, whose images, captions, and speeches are AI-generated, aims to promote diversity and inclusivity in the AI creator community.
In her acceptance speech, she emphasised AI’s potential to revolutionise industries and break traditional barriers.
The contest, organised by Fanvue, attracted entries from 1,500 global AI programmers.
Layli’s creator receives $5,000, support on Fanvue, and a publicist to enhance Layli’s profile.
Runners-up Lalina Valina from France and Olivia C from Portugal also showcased AI’s creative prowess.
Judges, including AI influencer Aitana Lopez and pageantry historian Sally-Ann Fawcett, evaluated contestants not only on appearance but also on AI innovation and social media influence.
Layli’s presence as a hijab-wearing North African avatar highlighted diversity in the competition.
As Layli continues to gain prominence, discussions persist on the societal impact of AI in shaping beauty ideals and challenging conventions in digital and real-world spaces.
While virtual influencers like Layli challenge norms, they raise concerns about perpetuating homogeneous beauty standards. Experts caution that AI technologies often replicate existing biases.