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R’Bonney Gabriel, who drew inspiration from her culture to create an outfit for a beauty contest, stated, “I have enormous gratitude for the [opportunities] my parents given me and wanted to communicate my love to them via this.”
This week, Miss Texas R’Bonney Gabriel became the first Filipina American to win the title of Miss USA.
For the 2019 Miss Universe competition, Team USA will be represented by Gabriel, a 28-year-old fashion designer from San Antonio, Texas. Gabriel explained that she created the outfit as a way to honour her history and her parents.
Gabriel posted on Instagram, “My mom is from Beaumont, Texas and my dad is from the Philippines.” Marriage vows were exchanged in Manila. The sleeves of my traditional Maria Clara Filipina collared dress were hand-painted with the same floral pattern as my mother’s wedding attire. My parents have given me so much in life, and I wanted to show how much I appreciate them by doing this for them.
Since October is Filipino American History Month, her victory is especially timely.
Gabriel, who became Miss Texas in July, expressed her happiness at being a role model on Houston Life, broadcast on KPRC, the NBC affiliate in Houston.
My God, what a privilege,” Gabriel exclaimed. Social media and Instagram postings from Filipina ladies and girls express their joy and excitement.
They’re so moved that “tears of pleasure” are streaming down their faces, she said, “because they’re encouraged to pursue pageantry or whatever.” As though by doing this I’m encouraging them to pursue any goal they choose. That’s why it’s such an honour.
In order to further his interest in fashion, Gabriel earned a degree in the field from the University of North Texas. The first Asian American to win Miss USA was Macel Wilson of Honolulu, Hawaii, back in 1962.
