The Miss Universe pageant has crowned only six Black women since 1952. These groundbreaking winners challenged old beauty standards and opened doors for women of color worldwide. Their victories represent more than just titles—they symbolize a shift in how global beauty is defined and celebrated.
The 74th Miss Universe pageant will take place in Pak Kret, Thailand, on November 21. However, recent controversy has put the competition under intense scrutiny. Miss Mexico Fátima Bosch faced public insults during a sashing ceremony. Several contestants walked out in solidarity with her. The incident sparked important conversations about respect and women’s empowerment in pageantry.
The Historic First: Janelle Commissiong Breaks Barriers in 1977
Janelle Commissiong made history as the first Black Miss Universe winner in 1977. The Trinidad and Tobago native shattered Eurocentric beauty ideals that had dominated the pageant for 25 years. Her victory sent shockwaves through the beauty world and inspired countless women of color.
Commissiong’s win proved that Black beauty deserved recognition on the world’s biggest stage. She carried herself with grace and confidence throughout her reign. Her legacy continues to influence how pageants view diversity and representation today.
Chelsi Smith Brings Authenticity to the Crown in 1995
Texas native Chelsi Smith captured the Miss Universe title in 1995. The biracial beauty queen brought undeniable charisma and poise to the competition. Smith’s authentic personality resonated with audiences around the globe.
Her reign emphasized the importance of being true to oneself. Smith never tried to fit into a predetermined mold of what beauty should look like. She left behind a powerful legacy of confidence that still inspires young women today.
Wendy Fitzwilliam Champions Women’s Rights in 1998
Wendy Fitzwilliam followed in Commissiong’s footsteps by winning Miss Universe in 1998. The Trinidad and Tobago representative used her platform for meaningful advocacy. She became a vocal champion for women’s rights and HIV/AIDS awareness.
Fitzwilliam proved that beauty queens could be agents of social change. Her work extended far beyond the pageant stage. She demonstrated how winners could leverage their visibility to address critical global issues.
Mpule Kwelagobe Puts African Representation on the Map in 1999
Mpule Kwelagobe’s 1999 victory marked a historic moment for Botswana. She became her country’s first-ever Miss Universe winner. Her triumph spotlighted African representation on the international stage.
Kwelagobe’s win showed that beauty and talent exist in every corner of the world. She brought attention to African culture and beauty standards. Her victory inspired young girls across the continent to dream bigger.
Leila Lopes Promotes Natural Beauty and Racial Equality in 2011
Angola’s Leila Lopes took home the Miss Universe crown in 2011. She immediately used her platform to promote racial equality worldwide. Lopes became a strong advocate for natural beauty standards across the globe.
Her reign challenged the heavily processed beauty ideals that dominated fashion and entertainment. Lopes encouraged women to embrace their natural features with pride. She proved that authentic beauty comes in many different forms.
Zozibini Tunzi Redefines Miss Universe with Natural Hair in 2019
Zozibini Tunzi’s 2019 victory represented a radical shift in pageant beauty standards. The South African queen wore her hair short and natural throughout the competition. Her unapologetic embrace of Black beauty challenged conventions that praised White beauty standards.
Tunzi’s message of self-love resonated with millions of women worldwide. She redefined what a Miss Universe winner could look like. Her reign proved that beauty pageants could finally move beyond outdated Eurocentric ideals.
The Ongoing Fight for Diversity and Inclusion in Beauty Pageants
The Miss Universe Organization recently reaffirmed its commitment to diversity and inclusion. However, only six Black winners in 73 years reveals how far the pageant still needs to go. These queens paved the way for future generations of women of color.
Each winner challenged the status quo and expanded the definition of global beauty. Their victories weren’t just personal achievements—they were cultural milestones. As one observer noted, “Black beauty doesn’t just belong in the universe, but it reigns there.”
The 2025 competition will test whether the organization can live up to its stated values. Recent tensions have raised questions about respect and empowerment in pageantry. Nevertheless, these six trailblazers remain powerful reminders of progress made and work still needed.
