The Democratic Republic of the Congo arrives at the 75th Miss Universe with one of the most internationally seasoned delegates in the entire field. Representing the country in San Juan, Puerto Rico is Jessi Longwe Kalambayi, 27 – a former Miss USA semifinalist, professional model, and humanitarian whose path to this crown crossed three continents.
Jessi was crowned Miss Universe DR Congo 2026 in an emotionally charged final in Kinshasa, succeeding outgoing titleholder Dorcas Dienda. Her win marks a significant milestone for the country’s pageant program – the Democratic Republic of the Congo only returned to Miss Universe after a 38-year absence, and this marked just the third edition of Miss Universe DR Congo since the franchise was relaunched.
Born in Kinshasa, Jessi grew up in South Africa before continuing her journey in the United States, where she established herself in the modeling industry, working with several internationally recognized brands. Her elegance and professionalism opened doors to prestigious publications, including Vogue Italia.
Jessi is far from a newcomer to major pageant competition. She previously represented Colorado at Miss USA 2024, where she finished as a Top 10 semifinalist – giving her direct experience with the exact caliber of competition she will now face on the international Miss Universe stage.
Beyond modeling and pageantry, Jessi has built a career centered on humanitarian work. She served as a Program Manager at the University of Denver, supporting refugee resettlement and employment initiatives through the Ready for American Hospitality Program, and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in International Studies with a focus on migration and humanitarian assistance — a reflection of her deep, professional commitment to displaced communities.
Despite growing up in a primarily English-speaking environment, Jessi has spoken about deliberately reconnecting with her Congolese roots to carry them proudly onto the world stage. Upon being crowned, she reflected on a lifelong dream fulfilled: “Toute ma vie, j’ai aimé le concours de Miss. Je me suis préparée à ces moments… C’était un rêve, je l’ai réalisé. Maintenant, c’est le moment de faire le travail” — all my life I’ve loved the Miss competition. I prepared for these moments… it was a dream, I made it happen. Now it’s time to do the work.
Pageanthology’s Assessment:
Jessi Kalambayi arrives in Puerto Rico with one of the most complete resumes in this entire Miss Universe cycle – Top 10 at Miss USA, a modeling career that includes Vogue Italia, and a master’s-level academic focus on humanitarian work. Her direct experience at a major national pageant of Miss USA’s caliber gives her a genuine edge most first-time Miss Universe delegates simply don’t have. The Democratic Republic of the Congo’s return to the international stage after nearly four decades makes her participation historic in its own right – and Jessi has every tool needed to make it count.