Updated ArticleCommissiong, the first Black Miss Universe, 1977, continues to inspire 49 years later after her historic winBy: Aishwarya Marbeer, Nadine Ramkisson (former Electric Circus TV Host). Forty-nine years ago, Janelle “Penny” Commissiong made history when she became the first Black woman to win the Miss Universe title. During the Miss Universe Parade of Nations, she appeared in one of the competition’s most memorable national costumes, the spectacular six-foot-winged “Spirit of Light.” A year later, an adult version was created specifically for Commissiong to represent Trinidad and Tobago at Miss Universe. In 2027, Commissiong will mark the 50th anniversary of her groundbreaking Miss Universe victory, while the Toronto Caribbean Carnival will be celebrating its own historic 60th anniversary.