Miss Jamaica World Toni-Ann Singh’s win as Miss World 2019 on Dec. 14 completed a five-pageant sweep by Black women of major beauty contests. Singh’s crowning was especially sweet due to the display of sisterly solidarity by Miss Nigeria, who, when Singh’s name was called, couldn’t contain her excitement and happiness for Singh—a moment that went viral on social media.
Prior to Singh, Zozibini Tunzi of South Africa was crowned Miss Universe 2019 on Dec. 8, joining Cheslie Kryst—Miss USA, Nia Franklin—Miss America, and Kaliegh Garris—Miss Teen USA, as Black women pageant titleholders. Reportedly, it is the first time Black women have held five major beauty pageant titles at the same time.
