Texas fashion designer, model, and sewing instructor R’Bonnie Gabriel, who said she is the first Filipino American to win Miss USA, was crowned Miss Universe on Saturday night.
Gabrielle closed her eyes and shook hands with runner-up Miss Venezuela, Amanda Dudamel, in the moment of the winner’s dramatic reveal, then smiled after her name was announced.
Thumping music played, and she was draped in a winner’s sash and crowned with a tiara on stage at the 71st Miss Universe pageant in New Orleans.
The second runner-up was Miss Dominican Republic Andrina Martinez.
In a Q&A at the final stage of the competition for the three finalists, Gabrielle was asked how she would work to show that Miss Universe is “a strong and progressive organization” if she wins.
“I use it to be a transformational leader,” she responded, citing her work using recycled materials in her fashion designs and teaching sewing to survivors of human trafficking and domestic violence.
“It’s so important to invest in others, invest in our community, and use your unique talents to make a difference,” Gabriel continued. “We all have something special, and when we plant those seeds in our lives to other people, we transform them and we use that as a means of change.”
According to Miss Universe, Gabrielle is a former high school volleyball player and a graduate of the University of North Texas. A short bio posted on the organization’s website said she is also the CEO of her own sustainable clothing line.
The competition, which featured around 90 contestants from around the world, organizers said, “included a variety of categories, including personal statements, in-depth interviews and evening gowns, and swimwear.”
Miss Curacao, Gabriela dos Santos, and Miss Puerto Rico, Ashley Carino, rounded out the top five finalists.
Last year’s winner was Harnaz Sandhu from India.