Reigning Miss World Chile, Ignacia Fernández, attended the National Congress of Chile to campaign for animal welfare as part of her Beauty With a Purpose project, The Sounds of Compassion.

During her visit, Fernández addressed members of the Animal Welfare Caucus, led by Deputy Sebastián Videla, calling for stronger protections for animals and increased public awareness around animal rights and the role of sanctuaries. Her participation formed part of a broader advocacy effort aimed at promoting empathy and responsible relationships with animals.

In a statement shared on social media, Fernández said:

“I was present at the National Congress of Chile alongside the animalist caucus, led by Deputy Sebastián Videla, making a clear call: we cannot continue to move backwards on the animal welfare agenda.”

She added:

“We cannot normalize practices that involve cruelty, suffering, and abuse, nor can we label them as a ‘national sport’ when they do not represent the majority of Chileans. Rodeo is not a sport. It is time to move forward, not backwards, to recognize animals as sentient beings and give them the rights, protection, and respect they deserve. Animals do not have a voice, but we do, and it is our responsibility to use it.”

Fernández has also been active in related public initiatives. Prior to her appearance at Congress, she participated in Miau Fest on April 5, where she spoke about her project and engaged in activities including animal adoptions, vaccinations, and veterinary care.

Organizers of the event said her involvement helped highlight the work of organizations supporting animal welfare and reinforced the importance of public engagement on the issue.

Earlier in the year, Fernández also took part in Latin America’s science and innovation congress, where she addressed environmental care, responsible pet ownership, and the mission of the Miss World “Beauty With a Purpose” program.

Her advocacy work continues to focus on education, awareness, and legislative dialogue around animal rights in Chile.