Most people do not remember Janelle Penny Commissiong this lovely beauty, but she was truly a trailblazer and in a league of her own.
Janelle Commissiong (born 1953) was born in Trinidad and Tobago. Commissiong migrated to the United States at the age of 13, and returned to Trinidad and Tobago ten years later. After winning the Miss Trinidad and Tobago title, she went on to be crowned Miss Universe 1977 in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.
In New York City, she studied fashion at the Fashion Institute of Technology, but returned to Port of Spain in 1976. The following year, Commissiong had been selected to represent the Island at the 1977 Miss Universe competition in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.
She was elected Miss Photogenic four days before the final, becoming the second black woman to win the award in Miss Universe history. On July 16, in the National Theater of Santo Domingo, Commissiong was crowned Miss Universe, attracting international attention as the first black winner in the chronology of Miss Universe.
During her reign, she was an advocate for black rights and world peace. Commissiong was awarded the Trinity Cross, the country's highest award, in 1977. Three postage stamps were also issued in her honour.
Kevin man, I don't remember this beauty, but you are really doing your homework. Thanks for keeping ups enlightened.
ReplyDeleteMicki
she looks very familiar like an actress that's working today. I'm not familiar with her. Is she still alive? If so what is she doing these days?
ReplyDeleteCarl
I remember her very well. She looks like Jayne kennedy, and was such an elegant lady. Thanks for the post.
ReplyDeleteshe's quite lovely.
ReplyDeletewhy is this not common knoledge about this beauty? seems like a very racist stant to me. thanks for the post.
ReplyDeleteMelvin