In a groundbreaking victory for inclusivity and representation, 22-year-old transgender model Rikkie Valerie Kolle, secured the coveted title of Miss Universe Netherlands 2023.
Kolle’s win not only marks her personal triumph, but it paves the way for more visibility and acceptance of trans individuals in pageantry. Kolle captivated the judges and audience, earning her the top spot among the lineup of contestants. She became the first transgender woman to achieve this honor in the Netherlands.
Following her groundbreaking victory, Kolle will represent the Netherlands at the prestigious Miss Universe pageant which will be held in January 2023 in El Salvador.
In an interview, Kolle expressed that she ‘never could have imagined’ that she would make it to the final stage.
Kolle posted on her Instagram and said, “I DID IT!!!!! Yes I’m trans and I want to share my story but I’m also Rikkie and that’s what matters to me.”
“And wherever you are in the world, I want to be there for you and be the example that I missed as a little me.”
Kolle mentioned that she wants to use her platform to be a voice and role model for young women and queer youth, according to her finalist page.
Kolle will be the second transgender woman to participate in a Miss Universe pageant, following in the footsteps of Angela Ponce from Spain who joined the pageant in 2018.
The Miss Universe competition started allowing trans women to participate in 2012. Since then, more trans women have been competing in preliminary pageants to be able to proceed to compete for the Miss Universe title.
The Miss Universe Organization was acquired by Thai business mogul Anne Jakrajutatip who is also a trans woman herself and a trans activist. When she bought the organization last year, she mentioned how she is committed to improving inclusivity and transforming the brand for the new generation.
If Kolle wins the next Miss Universe title, she will be the first trans woman in history to achieve this great honor.
Another loss for women’s competition. It’s the story is why “they” won. Certainly not beauty. Without the Story, they would have never. Why don’t “they” just wipe all women born women from competing in anything.
This is another point that men are better at being a woman than a woman! I am so surprised that the Women’s Liberation movement is not screaming foul on this!