Winning the title of Miss World in 2013, Megan Young became the first representative from the Philippines and Southeast Asia to secure the crown. Beyond her success on the global pageant stage, she established a lengthy career as a television performer and model, appearing in numerous dramas, reality programs, and hosting roles throughout the Philippines.
Early Development and Career Start
Born on February 27, 1990, in Alexandria, Virginia, Young moved to the Philippines at age 10, settling in Castillejos, Zambales. She attended the Regional Science High School III before moving to Metro Manila. Her entry into entertainment began in 2004 as a contestant on the GMA reality search StarStruck. Following her debut in Love to Love Presents: Love Ko Urok, she undertook various acting roles for the network, including parts in Asian Treasures and Mga Kuwento ni Lola Basyang.
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In 2007, Young transitioned to ABS-CBN, where she appeared in youth-oriented shows and the reality series Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Edition 2. She later portrayed the antagonist Marcela in the local adaptation of I Love Betty La Fea. Her career expanded into hosting and film, including the 2012 lead role in the series Hiyas. In 2015, she returned to GMA Network to star in the title role of the MariMar adaptation and co-hosted the sixth edition of StarStruck.
Pageantry and Global Recognition
Young was crowned Miss World Philippines in August 2013, claiming several special awards including Best in Fashion Runway. In September 2013, she achieved victory at the Miss World pageant in Bali, Indonesia. Her year-long reign involved extensive international travel for humanitarian initiatives. In 2014, the Philippine Postal Corporation issued a limited-edition stamp commemorating her win. She eventually returned to the pageant stage in March 2024 to co-host the Miss World 2023 ceremony in Mumbai, India.
Education and Personal Life
Young earned a degree in filmmaking from the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde. She is the elder sister of actress Lauren Young. In January 2020, she announced her marriage to Mikael Daez, a relationship that had spanned several years prior to their public confirmation in 2017. The couple welcomed their son, León, in 2025. She identifies as a Christian.
Fast facts
- Born: 27 February 1990, Alexandria
- Education: De La Salle–College of Saint Benilde
- Miss World: 2013
- Spouse: Mikael Daez
- Child: León (born 2025)
- Religion: Christianity
Questions readers ask
Was Megan Young the first Filipina to win Miss World?
Yes, she was the first delegate from the Philippines and Southeast Asia to win the title.
What is Megan Young's educational background?
She holds a degree in filmmaking from the De La Salle–College of Saint Benilde.
