Ophthalmologist Crowned Miss Universe Jamaica 2025
Dr Gabrielle Henry has been crowned Miss Universe Jamaica after competing for the second time. The 28-year-old ophthalmology specialist stood out with grace, determination, and confidence. She not only took the national crown but also earned four extra awards — Best Swimwear, Media Challenge, Best Personality, and the Altruism Award.
Her victory proves the power of persistence. After finishing in the top five in 2023, Henry returned to the stage determined to do better. This time, she left with the highest honor and the chance to represent Jamaica on the global stage.
Gabrielle Henry Reflects on Her Journey
Henry told the Jamaican Observer that her decision to re-enter the pageant was well thought out. “This pageant is a platform that allows women to become the finest version of themselves, and I wanted to re-enter to embody that,” she said. She explained that she also wanted to show women her age that they can achieve anything.
The doctor described her second attempt as exhilarating. She said the experience was filled with growth, sisterhood, and self-improvement. “I’m really glad to be the one who’s going to Thailand this year to represent my country,” Henry told The Gleaner.
Emotional Reaction to Winning the Crown
When her name was called, Henry admitted she was in shock. Tears welled in her eyes as she realized she would carry Jamaica’s flag on the world stage. “I was in shock — my eyes were watering so badly. But I’m just really grateful. I’m grateful that the judges saw something in me and that I can be a good representative for our country,” she said.
She promised to use her reign to highlight Jamaica’s resilience, culture, and innovation. “In Thailand, you’ll see my face everywhere. I’ll be forming networks, representing, and speaking about the resilience of our people,” Henry added.
Pageant Director Praises Her Potential
Karl Williams, co-director of Miss Universe Jamaica, described the 2025 contest as one of the most competitive in years. He praised all the contestants, noting that the competition was extremely close. Still, he believes Henry has the qualities needed to shine internationally.
“Gabrielle is a strong contender, and now our focus is on getting her 150 percent ready for Miss Universe. Jamaica is overdue for that Miss Universe crown,” Williams said. The international pageant will take place in Thailand on November 21, 2025.
Advocacy and Community Impact
Beyond the pageant stage, Henry is an advocate for the visually challenged. Through her See Me Foundation, she supports educational and economic opportunities for people who are blind or have difficulty seeing. Her medical training as an ophthalmologist aligns perfectly with her advocacy work.
Henry is also a trained pianist and singer. She continues her medical studies at the University Hospital of the West Indies (Mona). She explained that she balances her career and pageant work with a mindset of courage. “You have to really face whatever the challenge may be upfront. Face it afraid, do it afraid. And just do it unapologetically as well,” she said.
A New Chapter for Jamaica on the World Stage
As she prepares for the Miss Universe pageant in Thailand, Henry says her focus will be on representing Jamaica’s culture with pride. She hopes to share Jamaica’s talent, artistry, and spirit with the world. She also promised to support youth empowerment, education, and health care through her reign.
Henry’s win is not just about beauty but also about purpose, resilience, and service. With her medical background, advocacy, and determination, she is poised to bring a powerful message to the Miss Universe stage.
