The 68th edition of Miss Universe, Miss Universe 2019, held its grand coronation night in Atlanta, Georgia at the Tyler Perry Studios where Zozibini Tunzi was crowned Miss Universe 2019 by the outgoing Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray of Philippines. Zozibini took home the third Miss Universe crown to South Africa making her country ever so proud. She also created a sandwich win for the fourth time in Miss Universe.

The competition followed the Top 20 – Top 10 – Top 5 – Top 3 format just like last year. The stage set up was grand as the arrangements were made beautifully in no time. Since the pageant venue was decided last minute this time, Miss Universe witnessed ten withdrawals due to Visa issues. Nevertheless, the delegates who made it were welcomed with open arms and given a warm welcome in the USA. The organization made sure everything ran smoothly.

Even though Miss Universe did not do away with the continental divide in this year’s edition, the top 20 cut was made wisely by the panel of jury. An all-female panel this year as well, the judges made sure a fair decision was given as they assessed each round.

While the Top 20 cut was fair and wise, the Top 10 witnessed a lot of deserving and talented beauties not making it as the finalists. Philippines’ Gazini Ganados, Vietnam’s Hoang Thuy, Brazil’s Julia Horta were audience’s favourites since the beginning of the competition and were expected to be announced as the finalists. However, this is what happens when the whole batch in a pageant comprises of brilliant and exceptional beauty queens who give it their all to prepare for Miss Universe.

This year, Indonesia made history as it entered a Top 10 placement for the first time and it was all the more special as Frederika Cull was one of the youngest contestants participating this year. The Top 10 beauties were the epitome of grace and perfection.

As the Top 3 were announced which comprised of South Africa’s Zozibini Tunzi, Colombia’s Gabriela Tafur and Puerto Rico’s Madison Anderson, a few people were again left in shock as Thailand’s Paweensuda Drouin and Mexico’s Sofia Aragon did not make it to the Top. Thailand and Mexico were both mega favourites for the crown this year.

South Africa has given stellar performances in the Miss Universe pageant in the last three years and impressed everyone in the pageantry by winning two titles and almost winning the third one as well. The delegates have been kind, compassionate and true embodiments of the essence of Miss Universe queens.

All in all, this year’s edition was another successfully produced Miss Universe competition hosted by Steve Harvey, for the fifth consecutive year. We wish our heartiest congratulations to the newly crowned queen.