Miss USA crowned Miss Universe
Officials said fashion designer R’Bonney Gabriel is the first Filipino American to win Miss USA.
R’Bonney Gabriel, a fashion designer, model and sewing instructor from Texas who competition officials said is the first Filipino American to win Miss USA, was crowned Miss Universe on Saturday night.
Ms Gabriel closed her eyes and clasped hands with runner-up Miss Venezuela, Amanda Dudamel, at the moment of the dramatic reveal of the winner, then beamed after her name was announced.
The second runner-up was Miss Dominican Republic, Andreina Martinez.
In the Q&A at the last stage of the competition for the three finalists, Ms Gabriel was asked how she would work to demonstrate Miss Universe is “an empowering and progressive organisation” if she was to win.
“It is so important to invest in others, invest in our community and use your unique talent to make a difference.
“We all have something special, and when we plant those seeds to other people in our life, we transform them and we use that as a vehicle for change.”
A short biography posted on the organisation’s website said she is also chief executive of her own sustainable clothing line.
Nearly 90 contestants from around the world took part in the competition, organisers said, involving “personal statements, in-depth interviews and various categories including evening gown and swimwear”.
Last year’s winner was Harnaaz Sandhu of India.
