Forty years later and still the only Bermudian to be crowned Miss World in November 1979, this video was posted via social media in recognition of Gina Swainson’s achievement, after representing St George’s in the Miss Bermuda competition in March.

She also competed in the Miss Universe contest in July of that same year in Australia, where she finished as the first runner-up, before winning the Miss World title at the Royal Albert Hall in London on November 15, 1979 in a field of 70 competitors.

Gina was 21 years old when she won the Miss World, standing 5ft 9” with measurements of 36-24-36. She received $10,750 in prize money and a guaranteed $32,250 for a year’s work contract. The day she returned to Bermuda after winning the crown was designated ‘Gina Swainson Day’, that saw parades both in St George’s and the City of Hamilton.
On May 8, 1980 Miss Swainson became the first Bermudian to appear on a Bermuda postage stamp since they started being officially issued in 1865, which also marked the first time a living person other than members of the Royal Family was ever appeared on a Bermuda stamp.