Miss South Africa Crowned Miss Universe 2019

Miss South Africa, Zozibini Tunzi is crowned Miss Universe 2019 in Atlanta, US in a glitzy ceremony hosted by popular TV personality Steve Harvey, after she excelled through swimsuit and evening gown rounds. She promptly replied to all the questions on the social issues and when asked to explain why she was the right choice. 

Zozibini Tunzi said, “I grew up in a world where a woman who looks like me with my kind of skin and my kind of hair was never considered to be beautiful. I think it is time that stops today. I want the children to look at me and see my face and I want them to see their faces reflected in mine.”

Dressed in a silver and blue gown, 26-year-old Miss South Africa Zozibini Tunzi, won the crown beating Puerto Rican and Mexican finalists. Television celebrities Vanessa Lachey and Olivia Culpo were the backstage commentators of the event, while a panel of seven women judged who determined who is going to be the winner.

“If you do not use your beauty for your life’s mission, it is just an empty ornament”, Sofia Aragon, representing Mexico said before the event. 

Madison Anderson who represented Puerto Rico said, “Being on the Miss Universe stage is not just a dream. I believe that I found my mission. It is a representation of dedication, resilience and perseverance. I do believe now that my mission is to show the world that magic indeed happens, when we refuse to give up because the universe always listens to a stubborn heart.”

The competition was a direct face off between Miss South Africa and Miss Puerto Rico. The final announcement was made amidst thunderous applause and people in the audience waving the South African flag. The 26-year-old teared up as she was crowned the Miss Universe of the year.

Zozibini Tunzi beat more than 90 contestants from across the world in the 68th installment of Miss Universe pageant, which was held in Atlanta’s Tyler Perry Studios. 

In videos posted on the official Twitter account of the organizers, Zozibini Tunzi is seen celebrating and hugging other contestants. The new Miss Universe is seen saying, “There is work to do,” adding that this moment is ‘surreal’.

In another video, the Miss Universe is seen signing the host Steve Harvey’s jacket backstage. Catriona Gray of the Philippines, who presented Zozibini Tunzi the crown, was the Miss Universe winner in the year 2018.