Filipina-American fashion designer and 2022 Miss Universe R’Bonney Gabriel is choosing to view her early elimination from Season 22 of 'Project Runway' as an opportunity for growth instead of a career setback.

After being eliminated during the competition's opening week, Gabriel admitted that the experience made her question herself as a designer, but she also said it reinforced her determination to improve her skills and focus more on her fashion business.

She shared that she believes taking risks and experiencing failure are better than never trying at all, encouraging others not to let fear of rejection stop them from pursuing opportunities.

Gabriel revealed that she still believes in the denim outfit that led to her elimination and plans to release improved versions of the design under her sustainable fashion label, R’BONNEY NOLA.

Looking back, she acknowledged that she may have misunderstood the challenge and, if given another chance, would have chosen a different piece that better demonstrated her technical abilities.Fashion has long been Gabriel's passion, even before winning Miss Universe.

She earned a degree in Fashion Design and has consistently promoted sustainable fashion by using recycled materials and supporting women who survived human trafficking and domestic violence through sewing education.

Her previous collections, including those showcased at Bench Fashion Week and Fashion for Freedom, reflected her advocacy for sustainability and social impact.

While disappointed by her brief 'Project Runway' experience, Gabriel said it has motivated her to invest more time in her craft, strengthen her brand, and ensure that her design work becomes the defining highlight of her career.