She was recognized for her campaign focused on raising awareness and promoting social inclusion for people affected by ichthyosis, a rare genetic skin disease.
When Valeska Saab, Miss World Ecuador, competed at Miss World 2007, held in Sanya, the competition awarded two Beauty With a Purpose winners for the first time in history.
Valeska Saab was one of those winners, recognized for her campaign focused on raising awareness and promoting social inclusion for people affected by ichthyosis, a rare genetic skin disease that causes severe dryness, thickened skin, scaling, and, in many cases, social stigma.
Her project centered on children in Ecuador living with ichthyosis, highlighting not only their medical needs but also the prejudice and exclusion they often face. Through public awareness efforts, including a big concert, Saab aimed to break down misconceptions, encourage empathy, and support better integration of affected individuals into society.
Thanks to her Beauty With a Purpose project, Valeska Saab advanced to the Top 16 at Miss World 2007, becoming the first Miss Ecuador to reach the semifinals since 1986.
Ichthyosis is a group of rare genetic skin disorders characterized by abnormal skin shedding, resulting in dry, thickened, scaly skin.
• There are more than 20 known types of ichthyosis.
• The condition is present from birth or early childhood in most cases.
• There is no cure; treatment focuses on symptom management through daily skin care, moisturizers, and medical supervision.
Ichthyosis continues to affect individuals in Ecuador, though national statistics remain limited due to the rarity of the condition. Reported cases are more frequently documented in coastal provinces, including Guayas, Manabí, and El Oro.
Patients and families still face challenges related to diagnosis, long-term treatment, access to specialized care, and social stigma.
Valeska Saab’s Beauty With a Purpose initiative remains a significant early example of Miss World projects addressing rare diseases, reinforcing the competition’s long-standing commitment to social impact, awareness, and advocacy.
As Miss World turn 75, it celebrates all its BWAP winners and their remarkable projects, inspiring thousands across the globe.
