Miss World 2014 Winner is Miss South Africa, Rolene Strauss!

Miss South Africa Rolene Strauss was crowned Miss World on Sunday in a competition at Excel London ICC Auditorium on Sunday.

Rolene Strauss, a 22-year-old fourth-year medical student, took the title ahead of 122 other contestants from around the world.

Miss World 2013 Megan Young, crowns
Miss South Africa Rolene Strauss as Miss World 2014.

Miss Hungary, Edina Kulcsar, was the runner-up, and Miss United States, Elizabeth Safrit, came third.

Strauss had been given odds of 2/1 to win, ahead of Miss India, Koyal Rana, who was 7/1 with the bookies.

"South Africa, this is for you," she said in an interview after the pageant. "I'm so proud of you, and I'm proud to be your representative."

Strauss, a high-achieving Instagram lover, who is into oxtail, bungee jumping and blusher, plans to complete her MBA after becoming a doctor, but said she's dreamed of the coveted Miss World crown since she was a little girl.

Strauss is the first Miss World titleholder from South Africa in 40 years and the first to win the competition in more than 55 years.

As for what she would change in the world, she said: "The fact that we as humans don't realize how much potential we have; to do good, give and make things right. How amazing would it be if we all realized our potential?"

Strauss said she looked forward to continuing the legacy of Miss World CEO Julia Morley, founder of "Beauty With a Purpose," a nonprofit that supports humanitarian projects of Miss World contestants.

Miss World 2014, Rolene Strauss

Strauss was among 122 contestants who competed for the coveted title this year. During the ceremony, contestants wore colorful costumes representing their countries and territories and several also took part in a group performance of the hit ballad "You Raise Me Up," made famous by Josh Groban.

Miss World 2014 Candidates

After Miss South Africa was crowned, the remaining contestants on stage danced to LMFAO's "Party Rock Anthem." Group member Sky Blu, who wore a fairytale prince-like outfit, performed solo.

Ms Young, the Welsh actor and TV presenter Tim Vincent, and Mr. World Canada 2013 and Miss World 2014 web presenter Frankie Cena are hosts for tonight's event at the ExCel London Exhibition and Convention Centre.

Miss World began in 1951, a year before its chief rival Miss Universe.

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