SEE: Bryoni Govender takes Miss Universe in El Salvador

written by Savanna Douglas November 9, 2023

Miss South Africa’s first runner-up, Bryoni Govender, has been flying the South African flag high in El Salvador where the 72nd Miss Universe pageant has kicked off, with the grand finale set to take shape on stage on the 18th of November.

Coming up on 6 days of pageantry, Bryoni hasn’t made us feel left out for a second, keeping us abreast with glimpses of her journey in the lush El Salvador:

Day 1

Bryoni hops out of South Africa and into this fiery red number, as she gears up for dinner on day 1, with a quick outfit check at the InterContinental San Salvador. She also jokes about finally receiving her luggage, excited about the biltong she stashed in her bag. South African to the bone!

Another snap shared by the Miss South Africa organisation shows Bryoni alongside Miss Ireland, Aishah Akorede and Miss Norway, Juliet Ollefsen.

Bryoni later posted that she had registered for the pageant and that she had received her special Miss Universe stash, an honour awarded to all registered Miss Universe contestants. She wrote:

“Registration & Fitting Day 1!✅ Look who got her sash!🎉🇿🇦 and yes, I’m thinking about sleeping in it tonight, but in all seriousness, it is not lost on me the power, privilege and responsibility this sash carry. I hope to make you proud!🇿🇦👑🇿🇦”

Day 2

On day 2, Govender stunned in purple and orange hues that complement her complexion beautifully, ready to face a day full of interviews, shoots and “a whole lot of fabulousness!”

In a video posted on the evening of day 2, Bryoni shares a quick update, sporting a gorgeous beat by MUBA. She says:

“I’m having so much of fun, El Salvador is amazing, the girls are beautiful, and I’m just so happy and grateful to be here. I see all your words of encouragement and love. Keep it going, South Africa. We got this.”

Day 3

Day 3 greeted Bryoni in a gorgeous all-white Forever New dress, ready for her UCAP interview. After nailing that, she channelled her inner camouflage queen in a matching black and green botanical set before pulling out all the flare for her evening look.

Day 4

On day 4, Bryoni and a group of Miss Universe ladies appear to be having all the fun, and judging by the beach-y looks, it’s clearly Summer in El Salvador!

She later shared a gorgeous over-the-shoulder sunset kaftan look designed by Priscilla Michelle.

Day 5

Bryoni soaks up the El Salvador coastline, in the most gorgeous black dress, sunnies, and shoes by Steve Madden.

One user aptly comments:

“OH HUNEYYY😭 CUT ME OUT LIKE THE HOLES IN THIS DRESS😩🔥😍”

Day 6

Before an evening of glitz and warm welcomes at The Miss Universe pageant in El Salvador, Bryoni sports yet another gorgeous look designed by Priscilla Michelle. Radiant is an understatement – a dramatic colour-blocking tropical jumpsuit, with a sweetheart neckline and palazzo-style leg.

Then, Govender dresses up to the nines in a dress by South African desinger, Juan William Aria for a night to remember. She writes:

“A night to remember! Thank you to the @missuniverse organisation and the people of El Salvador for welcoming us so warmly!🇿🇦❤️🇸🇻 Thank you to @j_william_aria for this incredible dress and for making me feel like I could conquer the Universe! 💎”

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Feature Image: Instagram / @bryoni.govender