Janelle "Penny" Commissiong and Giselle Laronde are two trailblazing women who have made significant contributions to the world of beauty pageants. Janelle "Penny" Commissiong, a native of Trinidad and Tobago, became the first woman of African descent to win the Miss Universe pageant in 1977. Her victory was historic, not only because she was the first black woman to win the title, but also because she did so with her natural hair, without the use of wigs or extensions. Commissiong's win was a source of pride and inspiration for black women around the world, who saw her victory as a symbol of hope and progress in the fight against racial inequality. Commissiong's reign as Miss Universe was marked by her commitment to using her platform to raise awareness about social and political issues. She spoke out against apartheid in South Africa and advocated for the rights of indigenous people in the Americas. After her reign, she continued to work in the entertainment industry as an actress, producer, and director. Giselle Laronde, also from Trinidad and Tobago, won the Miss World pageant in 1986, becoming the first black woman to do so. Like Commissiong, Laronde used her victory to bring attention to important issues, including education, health, and economic development in developing countries. She became a UNICEF ambassador and worked to promote children's rights around the world. Laronde's win was especially significant because it challenged the beauty standards of the time. The Miss World pageant, which had been founded in the UK in 1951, had traditionally favored contestants with fair skin and European features. Laronde's victory marked a turning point in the pageant's history and helped to pave the way for greater diversity in the competition. Both Commissiong and Laronde's victories were significant not only because they broke barriers for black women in the world of beauty pageants, but also because they used their platforms to promote important social causes. Their achievements inspired and empowered countless women around the world, and their legacies continue to be celebrated today. In recognition of their contributions, Commissiong and Laronde have both received numerous awards and honors. Commissiong was awarded the Trinity Cross, the highest award given in Trinidad and Tobago, and was inducted into the Caribbean Hall of Fame. Laronde was named a national icon of Trinidad and Tobago and received the Hummingbird Medal, the country's highest award for public service. Janelle "Penny" Commissiong and Giselle Laronde will always be remembered as pioneers in the world of beauty pageants and as champions for social justice and equality.