Her viral slow-mo catwalk and tribal-inspired national costume won the hearts of many, gathering many views on social media; not to mention, her incredibly eloquent answers during the renowned pageant wowed avid fans of the show. When asked "what is the most important lesson you've learned in your life and how would you apply it to your time as Miss Universe?", Gray had this to say, "I work a lot in the slums of Tondo, Manila and the life there is poor and very sad. I've always taught myself to look for the beauty of it — for beauty in the faces of the children and to be grateful... I would bring this aspect as Miss Universe, to see situations with a silver lining and to assess where I could provide something as a spokesperson. If I could teach also people to be grateful, we could have an amazing world where negativity could not grow and foster, and children would have a smile on their faces".

Proving that she is not merely a pretty face, Gray shone brightly on the stage with her poise and intelligent engagement with the hosts and other representatives from all over the world. The Australian-Filipina bags the fourth Miss Universe crown for the Philippines following Gloria Diaz in 1969, Margie Moran Floirendo (who was just recently awarded Patroness of the Arts in our 2018 Philippine Tatler Ball) in 1973, and Pia Wurtbach in 2015. 

We extend the warmest of congratulations from the Philippine Tatler family and we look forward to her year as Miss Universe, assured that she will represent our country with great aplomb, kindness, and strength. 

To know more about Catriona Gray, you can follow her on Instagram: @catriona_gray.