Zozibini Tunzi, former Miss South Africa, was crowned Miss Universe at a spectacular event in Atlanta, US on Sunday. Hosted by comedian Steve Harvey and former beauty queen Vanessa Lachey, the three hour pageant was attended by contestants from 89 countries around the world.
Tunzi was the third South African crowned Miss Universe after Margaret Gardiner in 1978 and Demi-Leigh Nel-Peters in 2017. She was also the first Miss Universe to receive the new Power of Unity crown which is said to be worth R73-million. According to Rappler, the headpiece consists of 18-karat gold and was handset with over 1 770 diamonds. The centre of this glamorous crown holds a 62.83-carat golden canary diamond.
View this post on Instagram
The tie for the title was between Miss South Africa and Miss Puerto Rica, represented by Madison Anderson Berríos. Watch the glorious moment as our own was crowned the winner:
The new #MissUniverse2019 is… SOUTH AFRICA!!!! ?? pic.twitter.com/gRW8vcuT3A
— Miss Universe (@MissUniverse) December 9, 2019
Tunzi is currently completing her BTech in Public Relations from Cape Peninsula University of Technology. However, she might have to put that on hold, as she will be moving to New York for a year whilst fulfilling the duties of her new role. Well done, Zozibini!
Picture: Twitter/Therichaunty