R'Bonney Gabriel, 28, a fashion designer, model, and sewing instructor from Texas was crowned Miss Universe on Saturday night by beating Miss Venezuela Amanda Dudamel. Previously, she became first American of Filipino origin to win Miss USA.Gabriel's win is the first for the United States since Olivia Culpo won the Miss Universe crown in 2012. The other Miss Universe titles for US representatives came in 1954, 1956, 1960, 1967, 1980, 1995 and 1997.
The 71st Miss Universe Competition was held in New Orleans on January 14, with 84 beauties from around the world participating in the contest.
R'Bonney Gabriel, 28, a fashion designer, model, and sewing instructor from Texas was crowned Miss Universe on Saturday night by beating Miss Venezuela Amanda Dudamel. Previously, she became first American of Filipino origin to win Miss USA.
Gabriel's win is the first for the United States since Olivia Culpo won the Miss Universe crown in 2012. The other Miss Universe titles for US representatives came in 1954, 1956, 1960, 1967, 1980, 1995 and 1997.
At 28, Gabrielle designs sustainable clothing, runs a fashion line under her name, and works as a model and “sewing instructor” at a non-profit tailor shop.
Above: Miss USA R'Bonney Gabriel poses after being crowned Miss Universe at the 71st Miss Universe pageant.
Second place was taken by Venezuelan Amanda Dudamel, the third went to Andreina Martinez from the Dominican Republic.
Above: The final five contestants are announced during the final round. Left to right are Miss Dominican Republic Andreina Martinez, Miss Curacao Gabriela Dos Santos, Miss Puerto Rico Ashley Carino, Miss USA R'Bonney Gabriel, and Miss Venezuela Amanda Dudamel.
Gabriel said her mission is that women and girls see themselves reflected in her and feel inspired to achieve their goals while being true to themselves.
Gabriel was crowned by the 70th Miss Universe, Harnaaz Sandhu.
Above: Miss USA R'Bonney Gabriel, back to camera, is hugged by other contestants after being crowned Miss Universe.
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![The final round of the beauty contest involved "personal statements, in depth interviews and various categories including evening gown & swimwear". - Sputnik International](https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/01/0f/1106338604_0:0:3071:2048_600x0_80_0_1_2a776f508518086f18c35f4c53e36b9c.jpg "The final round of the beauty contest involved "personal statements, in depth interviews and various categories including evening gown & swimwear".")
