After 40 years, South Africa won the Miss Universe title. They had last won the title in 1978.

South Africa's Demi-Leigh Nel-Peters, 22, was crowned Miss Universe 2017 by the incumbent crown holder, Iris Mittenaere, on Sunday night.

The event, which was held in Las Vegas was hosted by comedian Steve Harvey.

A total of 92 contestants participated in the pageant -- the largest number in the history of Miss Universe.

Aspiring actress and Miss Colombia, Laura Gonzalez was crowned first runner-up, and the title of the second runner-up went to Miss Jamaica Davina Bennett, who is a model with a marketing degree. 

Miss Thailand, Maria Poonlertlarp, and Miss Venezuela, Keysi Sayago rounded out the Top 5.

Unfortunately, India's Shraddha Shashidhar made an early exit and could not even make it to the Top 16.

During the pageant, Demi-Leigh also shared the story of literally being abducted by car-jackers on the night of being crowned Miss South Africa. 

During the Miss Universe 2017 Q&A round, Demi-Leigh was asked about the most important issue that women faced in the workplace.

'In some places, women get paid 75 per cent of what men earn for doing the same job, working the same hours -- and I do not believe that this is right,' she said. 

'I think we should have equal work for equal pay for women all over the world.'

A business management graduate, Demi-Leigh helps train women in her country in self-defense. 

Demi-Leigh will move to New York City where she will live during her reign and become a spokesperson for various causes alongside The Miss Universe Organization.

Take a look at some of the pics from the pageant.

 

 

 

 

 

Meet the Top 5 finalists

 

 

 

 

(With inputs from PTI)