Jamaican Ophthalmologist and Advocate Faces Setback with Stage Fall at Miss Universe 2025 but Remains in High Spirits and Under Medical Care
Dr. Gabrielle Henry, crowned Miss Universe Jamaica 2025, is a remarkable woman balancing a career as an ophthalmologist with her role as a beauty queen and advocate. At 28 years old, she has stood out not only for her grace and poise but also for her dedication to social causes, particularly for the visually impaired through her See Me Foundation, which provides educational and economic opportunities to those with blindness or reduced vision in Jamaica.
Gabrielle won the Miss Universe Jamaica crown on August 9, 2025, at the AC Hotel Kingston, a title she earned on her second attempt. She impressed the judges not only with her beauty but with her intellect, passion, and community service. In addition to winning the main crown, Gabrielle received several sectional awards, including Best Personality and the Media Challenge Award, highlighting her engaging communication skills and charismatic presence.
Her journey to the Miss Universe competition in Thailand has been inspiring but also fraught with challenges. During the preliminary evening gown segment on November 19, 2025, Gabrielle experienced a dramatic fall off the stage. The incident, caught on video and widely shared, showed her stumbling in a striking orange gown and high heels. She was quickly assisted and taken on a stretcher to Paolo Rangsit Hospital in Bangkok, where medical evaluations revealed she sustained only minor injuries and no broken bones. Gabrielle was placed under observation but remains in good spirits, supported by her family and the Miss Universe Jamaica Organization.
Beyond her role in pageantry, Gabrielle is known as a “beam of light,” combining her scientific background with artistic pursuits including classical training in singing and piano. She aspires not only to bring pride to Jamaica on the international stage but also to be a political ambassador advocating for people with disabilities, especially the visually impaired.
Gabrielle Henry’s story exemplifies resilience and commitment—she continues to inspire with her advocacy work, her academic and professional achievements, and the courage she showed in overcoming the unexpected challenges during the Miss Universe 2025 pageant.
