Walking down the stage to be crowned Miss Brazil 2016 probably had Raissa Santana jumping for joy. Not only did she win the title of Miss Brazil, she also made history.

She’s beautiful, she’s Brazilian, and she is the second Black woman to walk away with the winning crown, after Deise Nunes slayed the scene 30 years before.

This year has made record-breaking numbers, as 6 out of the 27 contestants to walk the stage were of African  decent.

The number still seems significantly low, and doesn’t accurately represent the 54% of the Brazilian population, who considers themselves to be multiracial and black.

But its amazing to see the numbers rising. Black beauty is something that should be recognized around the world. Raissa embodies a strong woman and is an inspiration to every girl in Brazil. She represents beauty and integrity.

“I’m very emotional. This here is a mixture of great emotions. I didn’t expect to win this title, but I am very happy to have won this title and to represent black beauty and encourage girls who have the dream of having something, to conquer, to be a model, to be a Miss…now I want to encourage these girls and show them that they can.”

Raissa Santana will be a tough competitor in the upcoming Miss Universe where she will represent Brazil on January 30 in the Philippines!