Janelle Comision, the first black Miss Universe, made history in 1977, and nearly five decades later, she continues to radiate beauty and inspire others.

Born in Trinidad and Tobago, Janelle’s parents moved to the United States when she was 13, seeking better educational opportunities for their daughter.

With a passion for fashion, Janelle pursued her dreams by attending the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City.

After completing her studies, Janelle longed to return to her homeland and start her own fashion business.

However, she faced the challenge of reintroducing herself to a community that had forgotten her during her years abroad.

To gain their trust, she decided to participate in a small local pageant, initially viewing it as a way to promote her fashion venture.

To her surprise, she emerged as the winner.

Buoyed by her unexpected victory, Janelle went on to win the Miss Trinidad and Tobago title, propelling her into the prestigious Miss Universe competition.

As the competition progressed, Janelle realized the fierce determination of her fellow contestants, all vying for the coveted crown and the promising opportunities it offered.

However, she also witnessed the stark disparities in how the media portrayed white contestants versus women of color.

Janelle and her black colleagues felt marginalized, realizing that the world saw them as mere tokens rather than serious contenders.

It was a disheartening experience for Janelle, who had been shielded from such prejudices by her supportive family.

Despite the odds stacked against her, she persevered, answering the judges’ questions with intelligence and grace, championing causes such as black rights and world peace.

As the competition progressed, Janelle’s popularity grew, and she even won the title of Miss Photogenic, becoming the first black recipient of this honor in the pageant’s history.

Then, on the final night, clad in a resplendent gold evening gown, Janelle defied all expectations and was crowned Miss Universe 1977, becoming the first black woman to hold this prestigious title.

Janelle’s victory resonated deeply with many, as it symbolized a breakthrough for black women in the pageant world.

Her reign as Miss Universe allowed her to engage in numerous charitable endeavors, which she embraced wholeheartedly.

She fought for black rights and supported various charities, even traveling to different African countries during her reign.

However, not everyone celebrated Janelle’s triumph.

Some individuals behind the scenes harbored racist sentiments, including the main chaperone of the pageant winners.

This chaperone, disappointed by Janelle’s win over the white Miss USA title holder, openly expressed her discontent.

Undeterred, Janelle confidently reminded her that she had been crowned the most beautiful girl in the universe by the very organization the chaperone represented.

Despite offers from Paramount Pictures for a potential film career, Janelle chose to pursue her passion for fashion and contribute to her country’s development.

She became an influential figure in Trinidad and Tobago’s fashion industry, promoting local designers and showcasing the beauty of her homeland to the world.

Though she faced personal challenges, including the loss of her first husband, Janelle found happiness in her family, adopting a daughter with her second husband.

Now, after 46 years, Janelle Comision remains as stunning as ever.

Her inner beauty shines through her eyes, accompanied by the graceful lines that time has etched upon her face.

Janelle’s journey has paved the way for other black women, providing them with opportunities previously reserved for their white counterparts.

Her life serves as an inspiration, reminding us that beauty encompasses more than physical appearance.

What are your thoughts on this remarkable woman?

Have you ever considered participating in pageants?

Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Thank you for joining us, and until next time.