Historically, countries in close association with organizing countries have been more likely to win Miss World titles, as can be seen in the case of India (six titles), Jamaica (four titles), Gibraltar, Bermuda, and Grenada (one title each). Among the Big Four women’s pageants, Miss Universe and Miss World are the oldest, both organized by US and British committees. The survey stated that Venezuela was the country with the highest number of wins in the big four beauty pageants, followed by the Philippines and the US.
List Of Countries With Most Pageant Crowns
Most of us are keen to know more about them – questions like what makes them beautiful, and the lifestyle they follow. These women inspire millions around the world and keep the fairytale dreams of young girls alive. Here is a list of the Miss World winners who have mesmerized people across the world.
List Of Miss World Winners
History Of The Miss World Pageant
The Miss World pageant was founded in 1951 by Eric Morley in the UK as a bikini contest. Over time, it evolved into a prestigious international event, focusing on beauty, talent, and humanitarian efforts. Today, Miss World is recognized worldwide for promoting charity work and empowering women everywhere, while also celebrating diversity and cultural representation. Now that you know about the history of the Miss World pageant, dive into the below list of top Miss World winners with their respective images and descriptions!
Beautiful Miss World Winners’ List With Pictures
The following Miss World list features an impressive lineup of talented and stunning winners from around the globe. These women went on to do some impressive work after being crowned. Read more about these most beautiful faces in the world below!
1. Miss World Of 2021 – Karolina Bielawska
Date of Birth: April 11, 1999 Place of Birth: Lodz, Poland Height: 1.79 m (5 ft 10 in) Profession: Model
Gorgeous Karolina Bielawska was born to Agnieszka Zakrzewska-Bielawska (mother), the dean of the Faculty of Organization and Management of the Lodz University of Technology, and Łukasz Bielawski (father), former president of the LKS Lodz (a sports club). She holds a bachelor’s degree in management sciences from the Faculty of Management and Production Engineering of the Lodz University of Technology. After winning the Miss Polonia 2019 beauty contest, she won the Miss World 2021 crown on March 16, 2022, at the pageant held in San Juan, Puerto Rico. She became the second Polish woman to win the crown. Note: The Miss World pageant was not held in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
2. Miss World Of 2019 – Toni Ann Singh
Date of Birth: March 7, 1996 Place of Birth: Morant Bay, Jamaica Height: 1.67 m (5 ft 5 1⁄2 in) Profession: Graduate in Psychology and Women’s Studies
The stunning Toni Ann Singh from Jamaica is the latest beauty to join this impressive list of Miss World winners. The 23-year-old aspired to be a doctor and had taken a year off from school before the pageant. Toni Ann’s win is an important milestone for several reasons. She is the first black woman to win the pageant since 2001, when Agbani Darego of Nigeria was crowned Miss World. More importantly, her victory marks the first time in history that black women have held all five major beauty pageant crowns (Miss USA, Miss Teen USA, Miss America, Miss World, and Miss Universe).
3. Miss World Of 2018 – Vanessa Ponce de León
Date of Birth: March 7, 1992 Place of Birth: Mexico City, Mexico Height: 1.73 m (5 ft 8 in) Profession: Model
The gorgeous Vanessa Ponce de León is the first Mexican model to be crowned Miss World . The 26-year-old holds a degree in International Business. She is also currently on the Board of Directors of a rehab center for girls. The Mexican beauty is more than just a pretty face – she’s passionate about volunteering for real causes and has also been continuously involved with organizations that support people with disabilities. Did we mention she was also the winner of Mexico’s Next Top Model in 2014? You go, girl!
4. Miss World 2017 – Manushi Chhillar
Date of Birth: May 14, 1997 Place of Birth: Sonipat, Haryana, India Height: 1.75 m (5 ft 9 in) Profession: Student; pursuing a medical degree.
Manushi Chhillar was crowned Miss World on November 18, 2017 at the Miss World pageant held in Sanya, China. This twenty-year-old beauty with an infectious smile is the sixth woman from India to win this title. Prior to this, Manushi was crowned Femina Miss India 2017, where she won the title of Miss Photogenic as well. Manushi is presently studing at the Bhagat Phool Singh Government Medical College for Women in Sonipat. An excellent Kuchipudi dancer, she has trained under legendary dancers like Kaushalya Reddy and Raja and Radha Reddy. Manushi has also attended the National School of Drama.
5. Miss World Of 2016 – Stephanie Del Valle
Date of Birth: December 30, 1996 Place of Birth: San Juan, Puerto Rico Height: 1.78 m (5 ft 10 in) Profession: Student; studing Law and Communication.
Stephanie Del Valle was crowned Miss World on December 18, 2016 at the Miss World 2016, pageant. This event was hosted in Washington, D.C., US. This Puerto Rican beauty has also won the title of Miss Mundo de Puerto Rico 2016. With beautiful brown eyes, glowing skin, and glossy brown hair, Stephanie is truly a beauty queen. We could hardly take our eyes off her when she visited India in June of 2017. She is not only beautiful, but also graceful and intelligent. Stephanie is presently studying Law and Communication at Pace University, New York City.
6. Miss World Of 2015 – Mireia Lalaguna
Date of Birth: November 21, 1992 Place of Birth: Barcelona, Spain Height: 1.77 m (5 ft 10 in) Profession: Model
Mireia Lalaguna, who was crowned Miss World on December 19, 2015, is the first person from Spain to win this title. The pageant was hosted in Sanya, China. She has also won the Miss World Spain 2015 and Miss Atlántico International 2014 titles. Her beautiful blue eyes and long blond hair are mesmerizing – and remind us of all the princess stories we have heard as children. But, this beauty queen is not just a pretty face! She has a degree in pharmacy from the University of Copenhagen, Denmark. Beauty with brains!
7. Miss World Of 2014 – Rolene Strauss
Date of Birth: April 22, 1992 Place of Birth: Volksrust, South Africa Height: 1.75 m (5 ft 9 in) Profession: Model
This Miss World winner defeated 120 contestants from across the world to win her crown. The pageant was held in London, UK on December 14, 2014. The blue-eyed beauty has won several pageants before. She was crowned Elite Model Look, South Africa, when she was only 15 years old. She went on to win the title of Miss South Africa in 2014. She is the chairperson of The Strauss Foundation, a non-profit organization. She is pursuing a medical degree from the University of the Free State.
8. Miss World Of 2013 – Megan Young
Date of Birth: February 27, 1990 Place of Birth: Alexandria, Virginia, U.S. Height: 1.70 m (5 ft 7 in) Profession: Actress, beauty queen, host, VJ, model, Peace ambassador
Megan has quite a few feathers in her cap. This multi-talented Miss World winner has hosted several TV shows, acted in quite a few films, and even pursued a course in film-making. The Miss World pageant, where Megan won her crown, was held in Indonesia on September 28, 2013. She had previously won the title of Miss World Philippines 2013. She supported the newspaper The Sun in their relief work for the typhoon survivors in the Philippines.
9. Miss World Of 2012 – Yu Wenxia
Date of Birth: August 6, 1989 Place of Birth: Shangzhi, Heilongjiang, China Height: 178 cm (5 ft 10 in) Profession: Actress, television host, singer, model
Yu Wenxia, a stunning example of beautiful Chinese women, was crowned Miss World on August 18, 2012, at the pageant held in Ordos City, Inner Mongolia, China. This black haired beauty is extremely talented and an expert in Chinese folk songs. In fact, she also won the title of Miss Talent in the pageant. She was named Miss China World 2012 on June 30, 2012. Yu Wenxia has appeared in the film The Transporter Refueled.
10. Miss World Of 2011 – Ivian Sarcos
Date of Birth: July 26, 1989 Place of Birth: Guanare, Portuguesa, Venezuela Height: 1.80 m (5 ft 11 in) Profession: Model
Ivian won the Miss World 2011 crown at the pageant held in London, UK on November 6, 2011. She is a self-made woman who has seen a lot of struggle in her earlier days. She was orphaned at the age of eight, and was brought up in a convent at Cojedes by nuns. This brown-eyed beauty has won several titles such as Miss World Venezuela and Most Beautiful Face. This is truly a case of dreams coming true.
11. Miss World Of 2010 – Alexandria Mills
Date of Birth: February 26, 1992 Place of Birth: Louisville, Kentucky, U.S. Height: 1.78 m (5 ft 10 in) Profession: American TV host and fashion model
Alexandria was crowned Miss World on October 30, 2010, at the Miss World pageant held in Sanya, China. This blue-eyed blond beauty is the third woman from the US to be crowned Miss World. She had been modeling since a very young age. She had intended to become a teacher earlier, but decided to pursue a career in modeling. She also has an interest in photographing landscapes. She is a very confident and outgoing person.
12. Miss World Of 2009 – Kaiane Aldorino
Date of birth: July 8, 1986 Place of birth: Gibraltar Height: 1.74 m (5 ft 8 1⁄2 in) Profession: Mayor of Gibraltar This is one tough cookie. Presently the Mayor Of Gibraltar, Kaiane was crowned Miss World at the pageant held in Johannesburg, South Africa on December 12, 2009. She was previously crowned Miss Gibraltar 2009. Prior to that, she was working as a human resources clerk at St Bernard’s Hospital. This beautiful woman is not only a competent politician, but a great dancer too! She is trained in hip hop, modern, contemporary, and commercial styles of dancing. She was a part of the Gibraltar National Dance Team that represented Gibraltar in the Formation category at 2008 International Dance Organisation World Showdance Championships.
13. Miss World Of 2008 – Ksenia Sukhinova
Date of birth: August 26, 1987 Place of birth: Nizhnevartovsk, Russia Height: 180 cm (5 ft 11 in) Profession: Model Ksenia was crowned Miss World at the pageant held in Johannesburg, South Africa on December 13, 2008. She has won several titles previously, such as Miss Tyumen and Miss Russia 2007. This blue-eyed beauty has been into sports all her life and has participated in calisthenics, swimming, and biathlon.
14. Miss World Of 2007 – Zhang Zilin
Date of birth: March 22, 1984 Place of birth: Weihai, Shandong, China Height: 1.82 m (6 ft 0 in) Profession: Actress, singer, and fashion model Zhang Zilin is a very talented person. She won the Miss World title at the pageant held in Sanya, China on December 1, 2007. She was also crowned Miss China World 2007. Prior to that, she had made several achievements in the fields of academics and sports. She has professional training in 100-meter hurdles which she won in the 10th Beijing City Youth Games in 1999. She also excels in Triple Jump. She has a degree from the University of Science and Technology Beijing. She has also received the Sports Advance Distinction Award from her university. She lent her voice for the 2008 Summer Olympics soundtrack, as well as appeared in the music video for Beijing Welcomes You.
15. Miss World Of 2006 – Taťána Kuchařová
Date of birth: December 23, 1987 Place of birth: Trnava, Czechoslovakia Height: 1.76 m (5 ft 9 in) Profession: Actress, dancer, model Taťána was crowned Miss World on September 30, 2006, in the Miss World pageant hosted in Warsaw, Poland. She is the first woman from the Czech Republic to win this title. She had also been crowned Miss Czech Republic 2006 previously. Taťána was a very beautiful woman, with sparkling green eyes and long blond hair. She has appeared in a fashion video for Fashion TV, which was produced and directed by Alexander Schukoff.
16. Miss World Of 2005 – Unnur Birna Vilhjálmsdóttir
Date of birth: May 25, 1984 Place of birth: Reykjavík, Iceland Height: 174 cm (5 ft 9 in) Profession: Anthropologist, lawyer, model, actress, TV personality, Master of ceremonies This pretty lady has a lengthy portfolio. She was crowned Miss Iceland in 2005. She went on to win the Miss World title at the Miss World pageant hosted in Sanya, China on December 10, 2005. Not only did she make a name for herself in the world of fashion and beauty, but also in academics. She has studied to be a lawyer and an anthropologist, served as a police officer at Keflavík International Airport, has been the chairman of the college social club, and taught dance. Also, she has worked in films, sang and danced at various events, played the piano, and choreographed performances. Phew! She likes camping, hiking, and horse riding too.
17. Miss World Of 2004 – María Julia Mantilla
Date of birth: July 10, 1984 Place of birth: Trujillo, La Libertad, Peru Height: 1.74 m (5 ft 9 in) Profession: Actress, dancer, model, teacher María was crowned Miss World in December 2004 at the Miss World beauty pageant hosted at Sanya in China. She has several interests. She intended to be a high school teacher and was studying for the same. She also planned to pursue tourism as a course so she could float her own online tourist company. She was named Peruvian national champion of Triathlon and Pentathlon. She was also elected national athlete of the year in 2001. She is a professional Marinera Dancer. She is interested in charity work and has participated in many events for a cause.
18. Miss World Of 2003 – Rosanna Davison
Date of birth: April 17, 1984 Place of birth: Dublin, Ireland Height: 1.78 m (5 ft 10 in) Profession: Actress, singer, writer, model Rosanna is her Daddy’s princess. The song “For Rosanna” has been written for her by her musician father, Chris de Burgh. This hazel eyed beauty was named Miss Ireland in 2003. She went on to win the title of Miss World 2003 in December 2003 at the Miss World pageant held in Sanya, China. Rosanna has an arts degree in Sociology and Art History from University College Dublin. She intended to be a qualified nutritional therapist, therefore she took up a part-time course in Dublin. She has authored the book Eat Yourself Beautiful, which turned out to be a bestseller. Back To TOC
19. Miss World Of 2002 – Azra Akın
Date of birth: December 8, 1981 Place of birth: Almelo, Netherlands Height: 1.76 m (5 ft 9 in) Profession: Actress, dancer, model The beautiful Azra Akın was crowned Miss World at the Miss World pageant hosted in London, UK on December 2, 2002. She had previously won the Miss Turkey 2002 title. She is a great dancer and has won Yok Boyle Dans, the Turkish version of the TV show Dancing With the Stars. She has acted in several films and hosted many TV shows.
20. Miss World Of 2001 – Agbani Darego
Date of birth: December 22, 1982 Place of birth: Lagos, Lagos State, Nigeria Height: 1.82 m (6 ft 0 in) Profession: Model Agbani Darego was the first native African to win the Miss World pageant. The event was held in Sun City, South Africa on November 16, 2001. She had previously won the Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria 2001 pageant. She has modeled for several well known brands, such as Christian Dior, Sephora, L’Oréal, Avon, Target, and Macy’s. She has also appeared in magazines like Marie Claire, Allure, Elle, Trace, Stitch, Essence, and Cosmopolitan. She has a degree in Psychology from New York University.
21. Miss World Of 2000 – Priyanka Chopra
Date of birth: July 18, 1982 Place of birth: Jamshedpur, Jharkhand, India Height: 1.69 m Profession: Actress, singer, film producer, philanthropist Priyanka Chopra is one bold, beautiful woman with several achievements under her belt. She won the Miss World title in the Miss World pageant that was held in London, UK on November 30, 2000. She is one of the most popular models who turned Bollywood actress. Priyanka has received several awards for acting – one National Film Award and five Filmfare Awards. She also received the Padma Shri, the fourth highest civilian award, from the Government of India for her contribution to arts. She has been named one of the ‘100 most influential people in the world’ by the Time magazine. Her foundation ‘The Priyanka Chopra Foundation for Health and Education’ provides educational and healthcare aid to unprivileged children across India.
22. Miss World Of 1999 – Yukta Mookhey
Date of birth: October 7, 1977 Place of birth: Bangalore, India Height: 1.8 m (5 ft 11 in) Profession: Actress, model, and politician Yukta was crowned Miss World at the Miss World pageant that was held in London, UK on December 4, 1999. She has starred in many films. She studied Hindustani classical music for three years. Yukta is involved in social and charitable causes for the underprivileged. She signed up to donate her eyes in 2010. She is presently a member of the Bharatiya Janata Party, a political party in India.
23. Miss World Of 1998 – Linor Abargil
Date of birth: February 17, 1980 Place of birth: Netanya, Israel Height: 1.79 m (5 ft 10 1⁄2 in) Profession: Lawyer, actress, and model This woman is strength personified. Linor was raped at knifepoint by her travel agent, Uri Shlomo Nur. Devastated. She reported the incident to Italian authorities. But, they could not arrest Nur due to lack of evidence. She then turned to Israeli authorities, who thankfully supported her and issued an arrest warrant for Nur. He was finally convicted and sentenced to 16 years in prison. Shortly after the rape, Linor was crowned Miss World at the Miss World pageant held on November 26, 1998 in Mahé Island, Seychelles. This gave her a voice to fight against sexual violence. A documentary film named Brave Miss World, which is about Linor, the rape, and the subsequent activism, was released in 2013. She has an undergraduate law degree from Netanya Academic College and is a part of the Israeli Bar.
24. Miss World Of 1997 – Diana Hayden
Date of birth: May 1, 1973 Place of birth: Hyderabad, India Height: 1.79 m (5 ft 10 1⁄2 in) Profession: Actress and model Diana Hayden won the Femina Miss India title in 1997. She went on to earn the Miss World title at the pageant hosted in Baie Lazare, Seychelles on November 22, 1997. She has acted in a few films and participated in the TV show Big Boss as a celebrity contestant. She has authored a book named A Beautiful Guide, which is about grooming and personality development.
25. Miss World Of 1996 – Irene Skliva
Date of birth: April 4, 1978 Place of birth: Athens, Greece Height: 1.75 m (5 ft 9 in) Profession: Model The beautiful Irene Skliva was crowned Miss World in the Miss World pageant that was hosted in Bangalore, India on November 23, 1996. She was just 18 years old at the time. The green-eyed Greek beauty went on to pursue a career in modeling and TV. She has participated in some of the biggest fashion shows in Milan, Athens, and Munich.
26. Miss World Of 1995 – Jacqueline Aguilera
Date of birth: November 17, 1976 Place of birth: Valencia, Carabobo, Venezuela Height: 1.80 m (5 ft 10 3⁄4 in) Profession: Model Jacqueline won the Top Model of the World title in 1995. She went on to become Miss World in the pageant that was held in the Sun City, South Africa on November 18, 1995. Currently, she runs a modeling agency in Venezuela.
27. Miss World Of 1994 – Aishwarya Rai
Date of birth: November 1, 1973 Place of birth: Mangalore, Karnataka, India Height: 1.7 m Profession: Actress and model Undoubtedly one of the most beautiful Miss World winners, Aishwarya has also been called “the most beautiful woman in the world” and “the most beautiful Miss World ever”. This light eyed beauty has mesmerized millions over the years. She won the title of Miss World at the Miss World pageant that was held in Sun City, South Africa on November 19, 1994. She has acted in several films, and has received two Filmfare Awards. She was also awarded the Padma Shri by the Government of India (2009). She has joined hands with several humanitarian organizations, The Eye Bank Association of India and Joint United Nations Programme on AIDS (UNAIDS) being a couple of them. Aishwarya was the first Indian actress to be a jury member at the Cannes Film Festival. She is a Goodwill Ambassador for the Joint United Nations Programme on AIDS (UNAIDS). In 2003, she was the first Indian actress to be a jury member at the Cannes Film Festival. Most beautiful women in India are often compared to Aishwarya Rai, highlighting her immense popularity and iconic brand name.
28. Miss World Of 1993 – Lisa Hanna
Date of birth: August 20, 1975 Place of birth: Jamaica Height: 1.74 m (5 ft 9 in) Profession: Jamaican politician Lisa Hanna was crowned Miss World on November 27, 1993. The pageant took place in Sun City, South Africa. She had also won the title of Miss Jamaica World 1993 previously. Presently, Lisa is a Member of Parliament for Saint Ann South East. This beautiful Jamaican politician served as Jamaica’s Minister of Youth and Culture from 2012 to 2016.
29. Miss World Of 1992 – Julia Kourotchkina
Date of birth: August 10, 1974 Place of birth: Shcherbinka, Russian SFSR, Soviet Union Height: 1.80 m (5 ft 11 in) Profession: Actress and model Julia was crowned Miss World on December 12, 1992 at the Miss World pageant hosted at Sun City, South Africa. This graceful blue-eyed woman has worked as an actress and modeled for major brands.
30. Miss World Of 1991 – Ninibeth Leal
Date of birth: November 26, 1971 Place of birth: Maracaibo, Zulia, Venezuela Height: 1.85 m (6 ft 1 in) Profession: Model and businesswoman Ninibeth Leal won the title at the Miss World 1991 pageant that was hosted on December 28, 1991, in Georgia, US. She defeated 78 participants to claim the crown.
31. Miss World Of 1990 – Gina Tolleson
Date of birth: June 4, 1970 Place of birth: Spartanburg, South Carolina, US Height: 1.82 m Profession: Model Gina was named Miss World on November 8, 1990 at the pageant held in London, UK. She had previously won the title of Miss World America 1990 and Miss South Carolina USA 1990. This hazel-eyed American beauty has worked as a model with reputed brands.
32. Miss World Of 1989 – Aneta Kręglicka
Date of birth: March 23, 1965 Place of birth: Szczecin, Szczecin Voivodeship, Poland Height: 173 cm (5 ft 8 in) Profession: Dancer Miss World 1989 pageant took place on November 22, 1989, in Hong Kong. Aneta was declared the winner. She is the first and only woman from Poland to be crowned Miss World. Previously, she had won the title of Miss Polonia 1989. She is a professional dancer and was a part of the contemporary dance group at Gdańsk University. She has a degree in economics.
33. Miss World Of 1988 – Linda Pétursdóttir
Date of birth: December 27, 1969 Place of birth: Húsavík, Iceland Profession: Businesswoman, writer Linda was crowned Miss World at the Miss World pageant hosted in London, UK on November 17, 1988. She was also named Miss Iceland. She owned a spa named Baðhúsið for more than 20 years. Unfortunately, it was shut down in 2014. She published her autobiography, Linda – ljós & skuggar, in 2003.
34. Miss World Of 1987 – Ulla Weigerstorfer
Date of birth: November 28, 1967 Place of birth: Bad Aussee, Styria, Austria Profession: TV Host, model Ulla was named winner at the Miss World pageant that was hosted in London, UK on November 12, 1987. She has hosted several TV shows, and also hosted a sports program on radio. She has also authored a couple of books on cosmetics. She owns horses and likes to show jump. She is involved in the politics of her country.
35. Miss World Of 1986 – Giselle Laronde
Date of birth: October 24, 1963 Place of birth: Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago Height: 1.65 m (5 ft 5 in) Profession: Model Giselle was named Miss World at the Miss World pageant held on November 13, 1986 in London, UK. She was the first woman from Trinidad and Tobago to win this title. She also holds the title of Miss Trinidad & Tobago World 1986. She has a degree in Sociology and Communication from the Goldsmiths College, University of London. Giselle was awarded the Chaconia Medal and a BWIA plane was named after her. She has worked as a Corporate Communications Manager with Angostura Ltd.
36. Miss World Of 1985 – Hólmfríður Karlsdóttir
Date of birth: June 3, 1963 Place of birth: Iceland Height: 1.73 m (5 ft 8 in) Profession: Model The Miss World 1985 pageant was hosted in London, UK on November 14, 1985. Hólmfríður was crowned Miss World. She works in a local kindergarten in Iceland.
37. Miss World Of 1984 – Astrid Carolina Herrera
Date of birth: June 23, 1964 Place of birth: Caracas, Venezuela Height: 1.73 m (5 ft 8 in) Profession: Actress Astrid was crowned Miss World on November 15, 1984 at the Miss World pageant hosted in London, UK. She also received the Photogenic award. Astrid was also named Miss World Americas.
38. Miss World Of 1983 – Sarah-Jane Hutt
Date of birth: October 3, 1964 Place of birth: Britain Profession: Model I would say that Sarah was one of the most beautiful Miss World title holders. Simply because she refused to admit that she was the most beautiful woman in the world. In addition to being physically beautiful, this woman is spiritually beautiful as well. Sarah was crowned Miss World on November 17, 1983 in London, UK.
39. Miss World Of 1982 – Mariasela Álvarez
Date of birth: January 31, 1960 Place of birth: Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic Height: 1.75 m (5 ft 9 in) Profession: Architect, TV Host Miss World 1982 pageant was held in London, UK on November 18, 1982. Mariasela Álvarez was named the winner. She has several achievements under her belt. She has been a part of several TV shows, including the award-winning show Esta Noche Mariasela and Con los Ojos Abiertos. As an architect, she has built several important buildings in her country, such as Torre Cristal. She founded Casa Rosada of Santo Domingo, a home run for orphans and HIV children, and Hogar Mariololy.
40. Miss World Of 1981 – Pilín León
Date of birth: May 19, 1963 Place of birth: Maracay, Aragua state, Venezuela Height: 1.78 m (5 ft 10 in) Profession: Writer for newspapers Pilín was crowned Miss World on November 12, 1981 at the Miss World pageant hosted in London, UK. She was the first one to switch on the Christmas lights in Oxford Street (1981). Previously, she had won the title of Miss World Venezuela 1981.
41. Miss World Of 1980 – Gabriella Brum And Kimberley Santos
i) Gabriella Brum
Date of birth: May 19, 1962 Place of birth: Germany Height: 5′ 10″ (178 cm) Profession: Model
ii) Kimberley Santos
Date of Birth: August 21, 1961 Place of Birth: Guam, US Profession: Guardian ad litem Miss World pageant 1980 was held on November 13, 1980 in London, UK. Gabriella Brum was declared the winner. However, she resigned 18 hours later, stating that her boyfriend was against her holding this title. She claimed that this was because there was intense pressure from the media. But, there were allegations that she had posed nude for a magazine, which was against the decorum of the pageant. The crown was handed over to Kimberley Santos, the first runner-up. Tragedy struck when her boyfriend shot himself upon hearing the news of her signing a modeling contract to go to Japan. Fearing an impending separation, he took this drastic step. Kimberley was devastated and took a long time to recover. Presently, she is involved in charity work and is a court-appointed representative. She takes care of children who are in the care of Guam’s social services.
42. Miss World Of 1979 – Gina Swainson
Date of birth: June 7, 1958 Place of birth: Bermuda Height: 5ft 9in (1.75 m) Profession: Model Gina was named Miss World on November 15, 1979 at the Miss World pageant held in London, UK. She also holds the title of Miss Bermuda 1979. Her country honored her by putting her image on Bermudian postage stamps.
43. Miss World Of 1978 – Silvana Suárez
Date of birth: September 29, 1958 Place of birth: Córdoba, Argentina Profession: Actress and model The Miss World 1978 pageant took place on November 16, 1978 in London, UK. Silvana Suárez won the title of Miss World. She is the second Argentinian woman to win this title.
44. Miss World Of 1977 – Mary Stävin
Date of birth: August 20, 1957 Place of birth: Örebro County, Sweden Height: 1.72 m Profession: Actress and model Mary Stävin was crowned Miss World at a pageant held in London, UK on November 17, 1977. She has worked in several films, including two James Bond movies – Octopussy and A View to a Kill. She has also released an exercise video and two music videos.
45. Miss World Of 1976 – Cindy Breakspeare
Date of birth: October 24, 1954 Place of birth: Toronto, Ontario, Canada Profession: Jazz musician and former model Cindy Breakspeare was named Miss World on November 18, 1976. The event was held in London, UK. She was a very famous jazz musician. She has worked as a recording artist as well.
46. Miss World Of 1975 – Wilnelia Merced
Date of birth: October 12, 1957 Place of birth: Puerto Rico Profession: Actress and model Wilnelia was crowned Miss World on November 20, 1975 at the Miss World pageant held in London, UK. She has worked as a model and actress. She also founded a charity to help Puerto Rico’s underprivileged children.
47. Miss World Of 1974 – Anneline Kriel
i) Helen Morgan
Date of birth: September 29, 1952 Place of birth: Walsall, England Height: 5 ft 8 in (1.73 m) Profession: Actress, model, TV Host
ii) Anneline Kriel
Date of birth: July 28, 1955 Place of birth: Emalahleni, South Africa Profession: Actress and model The Miss World pageant of 1974 took place on November 22, 1974 in London, UK. Helen was crowned Miss World. However, she was forced to resign after four days as the media had discovered that she was an unmarried woman with an 18-month-old child. Though this was not against the rules of the pageant, the organizers put pressure on her to save themselves from “embarrassment”. Helen was succeeded by Anneline Kriel. Anneline was the second woman from South Africa to win the title. She has worked with Johnny Casablanca Model Management Agency.
48. Miss World Of 1973 – Marjorie Wallace
Date of birth: January 23, 1954 Place of birth: Indianapolis, Indiana Profession: Actress, TV Host, and model Marjorie was crowned Miss World in London, UK on November 23, 1973. She was the first woman from the US to win the crown. However, she was stripped of her title after 104 days for not “fulfilling the basic requirements of the job”. Marjorie was reportedly engaged to Formula One driver Peter Revson. However, she had an affair with the Welsh singer Tom Jones, and was seen getting intimate with him on a beach in Barbados. This violated her contract and she was asked to step down from her role. However, that was just the beginning of her misfortunes. Fifteen days after her title was taken from her, Revson was killed in a crash. She became depressed and allegedly attempted to take her life after overdosing on sleeping pills. She was found by her sister, who got her admitted to a hospital. Marjorie has been a part of many major TV shows, including ‘Baretta’, ‘Get Christie Love!’, and hosted Entertainment Tonight.
49. Miss World Of 1972 – Belinda Green
Date of birth: May 4, 1952 Place of birth: Australia Belinda was crowned Miss World on December 1, 1972. The event took place in London, UK. She was the second woman from Australia to win this title.
50. Miss World Of 1971 – Lúcia Petterle
Date of birth: October 31, 1949 Place of birth: Brazil Height: 1.72 m Profession: Doctor Lúcia was named Miss World on November 10, 1971. The event took place in London, UK. This kind-hearted beauty queen is a doctor, and helps underprivileged children by giving them medical care when required.
51. Miss World Of 1970 – Jennifer Hosten
Date of birth: October 31, 1947 Place of birth: St. George’s, Grenada Profession: Radio announcer, development worker, diplomat, author, and model Jennifer was the winner of Miss World 1970. The pageant took place in London, UK on November 20, 1970. She had previously won the title of Miss Grenada 1970. There were rumors that she had won because of the influence exerted by the Prime Minister of her country, who was one of the judges. She worked for BBC’s Caribbean radio service, and later became a flight attendant. She published her autobiography, Beyond Miss World, in 2008.
52. Miss World Of 1969 – Eva Rueber-Staier
Date of birth: February 20, 1951 Place of birth: Bruck an der Mur, Austria Profession: Actress, TV Host, model Eva Rueber-Staier was named Miss World at the Miss World pageant that was hosted in London, UK on November 27, 1969. Previously, she had been named Miss Austria. She has acted in three James Bond movies – The Spy Who Loved Me, For Your Eyes Only, and Octopussy. She is into art and creates metalwork sculptures.
53. Miss World Of 1968 – Penelope Plummer
Date of birth: October 26, 1949 Place of birth: Melbourne, Australia Profession: Librarian, actress, and model Penelope was crowned Miss World on November 14, 1968. The event took place in London, UK. After her win, she appeared in 1969 Bob Hope Christmas Show.
54. Miss World Of 1967 – Madeline Hartog-Bel
Date of birth: January 11, 1946 Place of birth: Camaná, Arequipa, Peru Height: 1.67 m (5 ft 6 in) Profession: Model The Miss World pageant of 1967 took place on November 16, 1967. Madeline was named the winner. She was also a semi-finalist in the Miss Universe 1966 contest.
55. Miss World Of 1966 – Reita Faria
Date of birth: August 23, 1943 Place of birth: Nova Goa, India Height: 1.73 m (5 ft 8 in) Profession: Model, Doctor Reita was crowned Miss World on November 17, 1966. The event took place in London, UK. She was the first Indian and Asian contestant to win this title. She was previously crowned Miss Bombay 1966 and Eve’s Weekly Miss India 1966. This beauty queen refused to work in films or model. Instead, she went on to get an M.B.B.S. degree from Grant Medical College & Sir J. J. Group of Hospitals. Later, she went to London to study at King’s College Hospital.
56. Miss World Of 1965 – Lesley Langley
Year of birth: 1945 Place of birth: Weymouth, United Kingdom Profession: Actress and model Lesley was crowned Miss World on November 19, 1965 at the pageant hosted in London, UK. She has worked in a few films and was featured on the cover of Weymouth’s Official Holiday Guide.
57. Miss World Of 1964 –Ann Sidney
Date of birth: March 27, 1944 Place of birth: England Profession: Actress, TV Host Ann Sidney was named Miss World on November 12, 1964 at a pageant held in London, UK. She has acted in several films, such as ‘The Avengers’, ‘Performance’, and ‘Are You Being Served?’. She has also appeared in many musicals and Christmas Pantomimes. Ann was also the lead singer at MGM Grand Las Vegas.
58. Miss World Of 1963 – Carole Joan Crawford
Date of birth: February 13, 1943 Place of birth: Jamaica Height: 5 ft 3 in (1.60 m) Profession: Model Carole was crowned Miss World on November 7, 1963. The pageant took place in London, UK. After winning the title, she was welcomed like a queen by her countrymen. The Jamaica Post even issued a set of stamps imprinted with her picture.
59. Miss World Of 1962 – Catharina Lodders
Date of birth: August 18,1942 Place of birth: Haarlem, Netherlands Profession: Model Catharina was crowned Miss World on November 8, 1962 at the Miss World pageant held in London, UK. She had previously been crowned Miss Holland.
60. Miss World Of 1961 – Rosemarie Frankland
Date of birth: February 1, 1943 Place of birth: Rhosllanerchrugog, Denbighshire, Wales Profession: Actress, model Rosemarie was named Miss World on November 9, 1961. The pageant took place in London, UK. She was earlier crowned Miss Wales.
61. Miss World Of 1960 – Norma Cappagli
Date of birth: June 17, 1939 Place of birth: Buenos Aires, Argentina Profession: Model Norma was crowned Miss World on November 8, 1960 at the Miss World pageant that took place in London, UK. She had also been named Miss Argentina World 1960 previously.
62. Miss World Of 1959 – Corine Rottschäfer
Date of birth: May 8, 1938 Place of birth: Netherlands Profession: Model Corine was the first woman from her country to be named Miss World. The pageant took place on November 10, 1959 in London, UK. She was a very successful international model. Later, she floated her own modeling agency in Amsterdam.
63. Miss World Of 1958 – Penelope Anne Coelen
Date of birth: April 15, 1940 Place of birth: Durban, South Africa Profession: Actress and model Penelope was crowned Miss World at the pageant that took place on October 13, 1958 in London, UK. She has her own line of clothing and beauty products, mainly perfumes.
64. Miss World Of 1957 – Marita Lindahl
Date of birth: October 17, 1938 Place of birth: Finland Profession: Model The Miss World pageant of 1957 took place on October 14, 1957 in London, UK. Marita Lindahl was declared the winner. She was the first Finnish woman to win this title.
65. Miss World Of 1956 – Petra Schürmann
Date of birth: September 15, 1933 Place of birth: Germany Profession: Actress, model, writer, and TV presenter Petra won the Miss World crown on October 15, 1956 in the pageant held in London, UK. She has worked in the fields of films, radio, and television, and also authored a few books.
66. Miss World Of 1955 – Susana Duijm
Date of birth: August 11, 1936 Place of birth: Aragua de Barcelona, Venezuela Height: 5 ft 8.5 in (1.74 m) Profession: Actress, TV host, and model The Miss World pageant was held in London, UK on October 20, 1955. Susana was named the winner. She had previously won the title of Miss Venezuela 1955. She was the first Venezuelan and Latin American to win this title. She has worked in several films and TV shows.
67. Miss World Of 1954 – Antigone Costanda
Year of birth: 1934 Place of birth: Alexandria, Egypt Profession: Designer and model Antigone was named Miss World on October 18, 1954 at the pageant hosted in London, UK. She was a very successful model. In her later years, she ran an interior designing company.
68. Miss World Of 1953 – Denise Perrier
Date of birth: February 13, 1935 Place of birth: Ambérieu-en-Bugey, France Profession: Actress and politician Miss World 1953 pageant was hosted in London, UK on October 19, 1953. Denise Perrier was named the winner. She had earlier won the title of Miss France 1953. She has acted in several films, the most popular being Diamonds Are Forever, the James Bond movie. She was also an active politician.
69. Miss World Of 1952 – May-Louise Flodin
Date of birth: September 5, 1934 Place of birth: Stockholm, Sweden Profession: Model May-Louise was named Miss World on November 14, 1952 at the pageant hosted in London, UK. She had previously won the title of Miss World Sweden 1951.
70. Miss World Of 1951 – Kiki Håkansson
Date of birth: June 17, 1929 Place of birth: Stockholm, Sweden Profession: Model Kiki was crowned Miss World on July 29, 1951 at the Miss World pageant hosted in London, UK. She was the first Miss World of the world. She had previously won the title of Miss World Sweden 1951. Kiki wore a bikini for the crowning ritual, due to which she was condemned by the Pope. This led to the ban of bikinis in the pageant in 1952. Even though bikini was reintroduced later on, Kiki remains the only one to have been crowned wearing a bikini. Almost everyone is quite aware of the huge impact Miss World winners have on young girls. But what impact does this competition have on other areas such as socio-cultural fields? Continue reading to know more.
Cultural Impact Of Miss World Winners
While the Miss World pageant may, at a glance, seem like a simple beauty contest, its impact is huge. Miss World winners have a significant cultural impact, often becoming global ambassadors for beauty, humanitarian causes, and social change. Their platforms raise awareness on issues like education, health, and gender equality. Additionally, they influence beauty standards, inspire young women worldwide, and bridge cultural gaps through their international presence.
Illustration: Most Beautiful Miss World Winners
Who is the most successful Miss World? No truer words have been spoken! And, the women listed above have carved their own circles in this world because the Miss World Pageant is so much more than just looks, especially in recent years. Check out the below infographic to remember the Miss World winners from the last decade.Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team Aishwarya Rai Bachchan is the most successful Miss World. In December 2014, she was felicitated with a ‘Lifetime Beauty with a Purpose Award’ by the Miss World Organization at the 64th Miss World contest for her humanitarian works since she won the Miss World 1994 title. Who is the most beautiful Miss World winner? All the Miss World winners are beautiful. However, Susana Duijm from Venezuela and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan from India are among the gorgeous ones. Which country has the most Miss World winners? India and Venezuela have the most Miss World winners. They have 6 wins each. Who is the most beautiful Miss World in India? The idea of beauty is subjective. But Miss World 1994, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan is often considered the most beautiful Indian winner of the title. Who is the youngest Miss World? Wilnelia Merced is the youngest Miss World. She was 18 years and 1 month old when she won the title. Which title is more significant – Miss Universe or Miss World? Both titles are equally significant. However, the Miss Universe title is more successful than the Miss World title. Check out this video showcasing the beauty and grace of Miss Universe winners over the years. See the stunning transformation of the pageants!
