Miss Colombia Paulina Vega Crowned Miss Universe 2014 as Miss USA Finishes in Close Second

Ladies and gentlemen, meet your new (and absolutely gorgeous) Miss Universe!

Miss Colombia Paulina Vega wowed the judges with her beauty, talents and intelligence at Sunday night's annual beauty pageant. As a result, she came out the big winner followed by runner-up Miss USA Nia Sanchez.

"I believe that my country has been an example to be followed for the rest of the countries," Vega proclaimed to the audience during the nerve-racking Q&A portion. "We are persevering people...and we continue fighting. Today, we are world leaders in many different parts."

Vega also impressed the judges when she was asked about what women could learn from men.

"I believe there are still men that do believe in equality," she said through a translator. "I believe that's what women should learn from men."

Our new winner comes after an intense competition that began with 88 contestants and was almost immediately narrowed down to 15 beauties.

From there, contestants had to show off their fit and fabulous figures in the must-see bikini portion. Somehow, someway, five additional women had to be eliminated from the competition leaving only 10 ladies to strut their stuff in the evening gown portion.

While working their ball gowns for the world, Nick Jonas took center stage to perform a medley of his hits including "Chains." While we tried to stay focused on the contestants, we couldn't help but savor the moment when the former Jonas Brothers member walked to girlfriend Olivia Culpo's seat to sing directly to her. Oh, that's definitely a reason to make us a little "Jealous."

Great music aside, the judges ultimately had to narrow down the contestants into five beauties, which resulted in the classic Q&A round.

While the finalists all impressed with their eloquent answers, it was Miss Colombia who came out on top for the special crown! Congratulations to all!