Groundbreaking: Miss Universe Makes History with Two Transgender Contestants

This year's Miss Universe pageant will make history by including at least two trans women. 23-year-old flight attendant Marina Machete, who was recently crowned Miss Portugal, will be participating in the competition for the crown at the 72nd Miss Universe event in El Salvador this November. She will be joined by Rikkie Kollé, who became the first transgender winner of Miss Netherlands in July.

In a video uploaded to the YouTube channel of Portuguese pageants prior to the competition, Machete discussed trans rights as a key component of her platform. She highlighted the concerning global increase in "transphobia and intolerance" as well as the Miss Universe Organization's progressive actions in 2012 to allow trans contestants, applauding their inclusive approach and their willingness to challenge societal norms. Machete expressed gratitude for the support of her family, emphasizing that despite the obstacles she faced as a trans woman, love ultimately triumphed over ignorance.

Finalist Marina Machete from Palmela is a contender for the title of Ms Portugal 2023. If either candidate triumphs, they will make history as the first trans woman to don the coveted tiara. Back in 2018, Ángela Ponce from Spain made waves as the pageant's inaugural trans contestant, although she did not make it to the final round.

Both Machete and Miss Portugal's organizers failed to respond to interview requests. However, the Miss Universe Organization stated in a message to CNN that they believe trans women are women and that they are committed to celebrating and recognizing women. They further expressed pride in being one of the early adopters of this change, compared to other similar programs. In recent years, Miss Universe, a highly anticipated global beauty pageant, has faced increasing demands for improved diversity, representation, and inclusivity.

Noelia Voigt of Utah wins the title of Miss USA 2023. The organization lifted its ban on transgender contestants after facing backlash for disqualifying Jenna Talackova, a trans competitor in the Miss Universe Canada national pageant. Talackova had undergone gender-affirming surgery, which initially did not meet the pageant's requirements. Miss Universe officials claimed that the change in policy was not influenced by the legal action threatened by Talackova's lawyer.

In 2022, Thai media tycoon Anne Jakkaphong Jakrajutatip, renowned for her appearances in Thai reality shows like "Project Runway," acquired the Miss Universe Organization for $20 million. Jakrajutatip, a vocal advocate for transgender rights and the CEO of Thailand-based media distribution company JKN Global Group, has openly shared her personal journey as a trans woman.

Model Ángela Ponce, pictured here in Madrid, Spain last year, became the Miss Universe's first trans contestant in 2018.

Carlos Alvarez/Getty Images

According to a statement released to CNN on Thursday, the Miss Universe Organization stated that it constantly evolves and revises its entry rules. Over the past two years, they have permitted married and divorced women, pregnant women, and women with children to participate. Additionally, by 2024, they will eliminate the current age restriction, allowing all adult women worldwide to have the opportunity to compete for the title of Miss Universe.

Both Machete and Kollé have utilized their platforms to advocate for a more inclusive perspective on beauty pageants, inspiring and motivating others in the process.

Defending their decision, Miss Italy organizers justify the ban on transgender contestants.

"Miss Universe asked us to describe ourselves in one word," Kollé stated in a video shared on her Instagram page before the Miss Netherlands final. "I have chosen the word 'victory' because, as a young child, I overcame every obstacle that came my way. Now, look at me standing here as a strong, empowering, and confident transgender woman."

"Always remember that we can achieve great things together; you are not alone in this world. Never stop dreaming of becoming your most confident and authentic self!" she wrote in the caption. "Don't let anyone else dictate what is best for you, because the only thing that truly matters is becoming the best version of yourself."

The Miss Universe pageant, established in 1952, evaluates participants through personal statements, extensive interviews, and showcases of evening gowns and swimwear. Around 90 women from various countries will engage in the competition this year. Although most of the finalists have already been chosen, a few countries, such as China, have not yet confirmed their representative.