Donegal woman Grainne Gallanagh announced as the winner of Miss Universe Ireland 2018

A Donegal nurse Grainne Gallanagh was crowned the winner of Miss Universe Ireland 2018 in the Round Room of the Mansion House tonight.

The Donegal native, wowed with her poise, passion and intelligence and was named unanimously as the winner by the esteemed panel of judges.

As well as the title, Grainne has won over €40,000 in prizes.

Previously Grainne, from Buncrana, was crowned Miss Donegal 2016, and she was also a Miss Earth NI runner-up.

Grainne, who works in London, has been raising awareness about women’s health during her Miss Universe Ireland journey, and has raised funds for her local women’s centre in Donegal.

Grainne was one of three Donegal women competing tonight for the title, the others were Niamh Frain from Letterkenny, and Emma Roarty from Dunlewey. Miss Universe Ireland 2017 winner, Cailín Áine Ní Toibín presented her 2018 successor  with the coveted Miss Universe Ireland crown alongside Managing Director, Brittany Mason.

Model Alannah Beirne, leading fashion designer Umit Kutluk, editor of EVOKE.ie Sybil Mulcahy, award winning actress Amy Joyce Hastings, IFTA nominated Irish director Graham Hastings and Director of the Actavo Group Margaret Clandillon had their work cut out for them as 28 confidently beautiful women took to the stage in the hopes of being named Miss Universe Ireland 2018.

Attendees at the event also enjoyed a performance by musician Meg LaGrande who provided some light entertainment whilst the judges deliberated.

Sponsors of Miss Universe Ireland, Flormar, Dundrum Cosmetic Clinic, Great Lengths, Shoes by Chavez, SMAK make up brushes and Liliana Montoya swimwear were also present on the night to show their support.

Grainne will now go on to represent Ireland in the International competition and compete against women from all over the world in the hope of becoming Miss Universe.