In Full Motion

Life after Miss Universe for R’Bonney Gabriel means being everywhere all at once—and making every moment count

By John Legaspi

R’Bonney Gabriel is every bit a modern queen. She knows what she wants, marches to the beat of her own drum, and meets new challenges with fearless determination. On the flip side, the Filipino-American beauty pageant winner is also humble and compassionate. She recognizes the power of kindness—a trait that has endeared her to many people and fans, alongside her impeccable sense of style.

Although her pageant days are behind her, R’Bonney has proven that life after the crown holds just as many winning moments. These experiences have taken her across the globe, allowing her to make a greater impact and continue inspiring others. Her life has been in complete perpetual motion—and she is far from stopping.

For Glen Magazine’s maiden issue, R’Bonney takes a break from her busy schedule and sits down to take a retrospective look at what her life has been over the past few years. From the whirlwind of being crowned Miss Universe to gracing runway shows in New York and Tokyo, and advocating for sustainability on international stages, her journey has been anything but ordinary.

Through it all, she remains the same grounded woman who once dreamed of working in fashion as a little girl in Houston. Now, with the world watching, she continues to evolve—not just as a titleholder, designer, or public figure—but as a voice of purpose, power, and unapologetic authenticity—a true Glen woman.

Constant evolution
Describing her personal aesthetic as “experimental, edgy, with a touch of tomboy,” R’Bonney stands out in a sea of convention. She doesn’t just follow trends—she challenges them. “I like to wear whatever I’m feeling that day,” she says, breaking traditional fashion rules by writing her own. This expressive freedom is more than personal—it’s political. “Never be scared to try anything new,” she adds, a mantra that permeates both her wardrobe and her worldview.

R’Bonney’s favorite look at New York Fashion Week mirrors that philosophy. During one of her appearances, she wore a vintage men’s suit, tailored with strong shoulders and defined silhouettes. “Mixing menswear with womenswear gives a cool and balanced look,” she says. It’s fashion as a statement—genderless, confident, and entirely her own.

Balancing roles as both model and designer, R’Bonney finds strength in synergy. “I feel like I can’t have one without the other,” she shares. Whether preparing for a photo shoot or a high-profile event, she often crafts custom outfits herself. For her, fashion is not only a canvas—but also a compass.

Traveling the globe—this year alone to Japan, Indonesia, and New York—R’Bonney has realized childhood dreams she once considered distant. “I always dreamed of traveling for work… Now, I truly can’t believe it,” she says. Her experiences on the road are exhilarating, but they also inspire deeper reflection and growth. “It demands so much work, yet it is so much fun.”

Her time attending fashion weeks has deepened her appreciation for the industry. “To keep a brand alive, it’s marketing, vision, story, and identity,” she explains. R’Bonney’s perspective is shaped by her dual lens as both designer and model, giving her unique insight into the magic and mechanics of fashion.

The inspiration she draws from runway shows is tangible. “Every time I see a runway show, it definitely gives me motivation to make my clothes and push my designing skills,” she says. A new line, inspired by her travels and observations, may just be on the horizon.

Moments that matter
One of R’Bonney’s most defining experiences during her reign as Miss Universe wasn’t a red carpet moment—it was her keynote speech in Paris for a sustainable fashion initiative. “It was a dream come true,” she recalls. Speaking about sustainability, a cause she’s deeply passionate about, allowed her to merge purpose with platform. It was also a personal milestone—overcoming a fear of public speaking.

These meaningful experiences have taught her the importance of pausing. “You can move so fast through life that sometimes you’re just going through the motions,” she says. “No matter how busy I am, I try to stop and reflect so I can really appreciate all the amazing opportunities I’ve been given.”

Through it all, she remains grounded. Journaling—though more sporadic these days—continues to help her process her journey. Her most recent entry? A heartfelt account of New York Fashion Week—its highs, its challenges, and her relentless pursuit of growth and gratitude.

R’Bonney’s story isn’t just about style—it’s about substance. Her reign as Miss Universe may have been brief, but her impact is enduring. She’s a designer, a dreamer, and a doer, reminding us that fashion isn’t just what you wear—it’s how you live, lead, and inspire.

In her own words, “There is so much beauty in knowing exactly what you want. Focus is everything.” And that’s exactly who R’Bonney is. She’s laser-focused—and fiercely unstoppable.