Margaret Gardiner

Awards & Honours

Awards Won

Honours

Covers

Records

Margaret Gardiner's place in history is secure as the first African woman to win Miss Universe. Her 1978 victory in Acapulco broke barriers and inspired generations. She remains a celebrated figure in South Africa, and her legacy was highlighted when Demi-Leigh Nel-Peters and Zozibini Tunzi followed her as Miss Universe winners in 2017 and 2019.

AwardsMargaret Gardiner won the Miss Republic of South Africa 1978 and Miss Universe 1978, making history as the first African woman to claim the global title. Her pageant victories remain her most celebrated achievements.

Honours & Distinctions

First South African Miss Universe

Miss Universe Organization·1978

Historic first for South Africa and the African continent

Magazine Covers

TV Magazine

1979

Margaret Gardiner cover

Records & Feats

First African woman to win Miss Universe

Historic First·1978

Won the 1978 Miss Universe pageant, becoming the first woman from Africa to hold the title.