Miss Belgium 2024: Valentine Besard Pursues Long-Held Dream

Valentine Besard, the partner of Belgian television personality Ruben Van Gucht, has officially entered the competition for Miss Belgium 2026, fulfilling a long-held ambition. The 20-year-old model and aspiring teacher announced her participation on March 27, 2026, stating that becoming Miss Belgium has been “a dream for years.”

Besard’s decision to compete comes as she balances a multifaceted career. Currently studying to become a secondary school teacher specializing in English and history, she likewise works as a professional model and catwalk coach. She previously held the title of Miss Grace Benelux three years ago, a stepping stone that clearly fueled her desire to pursue the national crown. Besard is even taking French lessons to prepare for the competition, as reported by De Krantenkoppen.

Beyond the Red Carpet: A Rising Profile

While recently gaining public attention as Van Gucht’s partner, Besard is determined to be recognized for her own accomplishments. Her appearance alongside Van Gucht at the Golden Shoe awards in a striking red dress brought her into the spotlight, but she’s keen to demonstrate that she’s “much more than that,” as she stated in an interview with Nieuwskoppen.be. She emphasizes her dedication and work ethic, combining three jobs while pursuing her educational goals.

The relationship with Van Gucht, a prominent sports journalist, has inevitably drawn media attention. However, Besard appears to navigate the scrutiny with grace and focus. According to Voetbal24, she maintains a grounded lifestyle, abstaining from alcohol and prioritizing her career. This dedication is particularly noteworthy given the often-glamorous world of beauty pageants.

The Miss Belgium Landscape in 2026

The Miss Belgium competition has evolved significantly over the years, placing increasing emphasis on intelligence, ambition, and social responsibility alongside traditional beauty standards. The organization seeks candidates who can serve as role models and ambassadors for the country. Besard’s background as a future educator and her commitment to personal and professional development align with these evolving criteria.

The competition itself typically involves several stages, including preliminary interviews, swimsuit and evening gown competitions, and a final question-and-answer segment. Candidates are judged on their poise, communication skills, and overall presentation. The winner represents Belgium at the Miss Universe and Miss World pageants, gaining international exposure and opportunities.

Navigating Public Perception and Personal Goals

Besard’s decision to enter Miss Belgium has sparked considerable interest, not only due to her relationship with Van Gucht but also because of her already established career. She’s actively working to define herself beyond being “the modern flame,” as she described it to Nieuwskoppen.be. This desire for independent recognition is a common theme among contestants who seek to leverage the platform for broader opportunities.

The couple has even discussed the possibility of starting a family, but Besard remains focused on her immediate goal: winning the Miss Belgium title. As reported by De Krantenkoppen, she stated, “Ruben and I have already talked about children. But for now, I only have one goal.”

What’s on the Horizon for Valentine Besard?

Besard’s participation in Miss Belgium will undoubtedly intensify public scrutiny. The coming months will involve rigorous preparation, including perfecting her stage presence, honing her interview skills, and continuing her French language studies. The preliminary rounds of the competition are expected to begin in the spring, with the grand finale scheduled for later in the year. The exact date and location of the finale have not yet been announced.

Regardless of the outcome, Besard’s decision to pursue her dream demonstrates her ambition and determination. She’s already established a solid foundation with her education, modeling career, and supportive relationship. Her journey through the Miss Belgium competition will be one to watch, offering a glimpse into the evolving world of beauty pageants and the aspirations of a young woman determined to make her mark.