R’Bonney Gabriel has become the first Filipina American to win Miss USA, beating out 83 other contestants to be crowned Miss Universe.
Gabriel, a Houston native, is the chief executive of a sustainable clothing line, R’Bonney Nola. She earned her bachelor’s degree in fashion design from the University of North Texas.
When asked what change she would make to the contest, she said she would raise the age limit. “I am 28 years old and that is the oldest age to compete. And I think it’s a beautiful thing,” she said during the pageant.
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The Miss Universe website called her “a voice for Asian Americans” who “opens the door for more diversity and representation in society.”
The Miss Universe first runner-up was Miss Venezuela Amanda Dudamel. The second runner-up was Miss Dominican Republic Andreína Martínez.