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In a dazzling victory that has Houston buzzing with pride, R’Bonney Gabriel, a local gem, clinched the title of Miss Universe 2023 in New Orleans.

This triumph isn’t just about adding another crown to her collection; it marks a year of groundbreaking achievements for Gabriel.

In 2022, she shattered barriers by becoming both the first Asian American Miss Texas USA and the first Filipina to be crowned Miss USA.

Gabriel, who had a chat with ABC13 before jetting off to New Orleans, recounted her journey to the national title as something out of a dream.

It’s been a long 14 years since Texas had last seen one of its own take the Miss USA title home.

Her win, she recalls, was a moment of sheer disbelief, a whirlwind of emotions enveloping her as the reality of her achievement sank in.

Coming from a rich cultural background with a Filipino father and a mother from Beaumont, Gabriel has always placed a high value on celebrating her heritage.

Despite never seeing a state titleholder who resembled her, she remained undeterred and brimming with confidence.

“I took that win home for my family, for my community, for Houston, for Texas, and for the Asian American community,” Gabriel expressed, emphasizing the significance of her victory.

Known for her impeccable fashion sense, Gabriel turned heads at the pageant with her wardrobe choices, notably winning the Best State Costume award with a piece inspired by the Texas bluebonnet.

Her national costume, a nod to the NASA Space Center’s mission to send the first woman to the moon, was aptly titled “Woman on the Moon.”

Gabriel’s passion doesn’t end with pageantry.

A fervent advocate for environmental sustainability in the fashion industry, she has made it her mission to combat pollution.

With a degree in fashion design from the University of North Texas, Gabriel now leads sewing classes for survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking at Magpies and Peacocks, utilizing fashion as a powerful tool for positive change.

She challenges the conventional perception of fashion, striving to make a difference in an industry notorious for its environmental impact.

By focusing on recycling and upcycling, Gabriel aims to transform excess fabric destined for landfills into stunning, eco-friendly pieces.

Recently crowned Miss USA 2022, Gabriel decided to spend the majority of her preparation time for the Miss Universe competition in Houston, competing against 83 other hopefuls.

Her victory not only brings the international title back to the USA after more than a decade but also marks the beginning of her year of service in Thailand.

Gabriel is eager to continue developing her clothing brand, “R’Bonney Nola,” and to champion her advocacy platform.

Reflecting on her journey, Gabriel hopes to leave a legacy of hard work, uniqueness, and cultural pride.

“I want to be remembered for embracing who I was and really just putting my best foot forward, embracing my culture and owning who I am.

I hope that inspires everybody else, too,” she muses, setting a powerful example for future generations.

For more inspiring stories from Houston’s vibrant communities, keep an eye on Rosie Nguyen’s social media updates.