Miss International Queen is the world's biggest beauty pageant for transgender women. The pageant was conceived in 2004 and named the largest and most prestigious transgender pageant by CNN original American documentary television series This Is Life with Lisa Ling aired on 26 November 2017.[1]

Miss International Queen
TypeInternational beauty pageant for transgender women
Parent organizationTiffany's Show Pattaya Co., Ltd.
HeadquartersPattaya, Chonburi Province, Thailand
First edition2004
Most recent edition2024
Current titleholderCatalina Marsano
Peru
President
Alisa Phanthusak
Honorary Advisor
Seree Wongmontha
LanguageEnglish, Thai
Interpreters provided
Websitemissinternationalqueen.com

The pageant is owned and run by Thailand-based Tiffany's Show Pattaya Co, Ltd. It is held annually in Pattaya City, Thailand since 2004.[2] The mission of the pageant aims towards LGBTQ and Transgender awareness and equality in both society and workforce, while all the monetary profits of the actual televised show goes to the Royal Charity AIDS Foundation of Thailand.

The reigning Miss International Queen is Catalina Marsano from Peru, who was crowned on 24 August 2024.

History

The Miss International Queen official website states that the beauty pageant was established with the intent to, "offer an international competition for transgender women from around the world and to provide an opportunity for transgender women to be more accepted in today's world, to create transgender rights awareness among international communities and to build friendship and exchange ideas among international lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender/transsexual communities."[3]

Pageant requirements

The contestants must have been born male, can be pre- or post-operation and between the ages of 18 and 35. In addition, participants can only represent their country of birth or that listed in their passport and must not have previously joined any publication/website/adult film/prostitution showcasing nudity. Previous winners or runner-up contestants are not allowed to join again. Repeat non-placement candidates are allowed to re-submit their credentials and application.

Only about 25 semi-final contestants chosen would go on to compete in the final round and are required to participate in two weeks of activities: photo shoots, luncheons with city officials, dinner with the press, sponsor visits and community outreach, similar conditions to competitors in other beauty pageants. The final show will be aired on Thai television as well as live online streaming.

Crown design and prize

In 2011, the crown for Miss International Queen Crown was re-designed by an inspiration of butterflies and the crown of Lady Liberty. The butterflies were intended to symbolize beauty found in nature and the idea of rebirth. The crown remains with the Miss International Queen Organization at an estimated value of US$10,000.[2] The Miss International Queen winner receives cash prize of 450,000 Thai baht (about US$15,000), many sponsor gifts, an apartment at Woodlands Resort Pattaya during her reign and memories that last a lifetime.

Charity trademarks

Miss International Queen is a registered trademark and a non-profit sector of the organizer Tiffany's Show Pattaya Co., Ltd., world's largest transgender cabaret show since 1974 and sponsored by Tourism Authority of Thailand. All the monetary profits of the final televised show goes to the Royal Charity AIDS Foundation of Thailand.

Transgender inclusion in pageants

According to recent studies, transgender individuals are often the victims of social and political discrimination.[4] The Miss International Queen pageant offers contestants the opportunity to compete and showcase their talent and beauty in an LGBTQ friendly environment.

Transgender pageant cases

Recent events have drawn attention to the treatment of transgender pageant contestants and how their personal identification impacts their eligibility. There have been instances where transgender and transsexual pageant winners have lost their title for not being "transgender enough".[5] On the other hand, certain participants have also been disqualified from cisgender female pageants for not being a "natural born female". In 2012, Jenna Talackova who participated in Miss International Queen in 2010 was disqualified from Miss Universe Canada on the basis of competing as a woman when she was born a male. Supporters of Talackova argue that there were no rules explicitly banning transsexuals from competing.[6] Talackova joined in the 2010 Miss International Queen competition. This instance sparked a debate as to how Talackova's gender identification affected her eligibility to compete in both competitions.[7] Talackova argued that if she was transgender, she could participate in transgender pageants. At the same time, if she identified as a woman, she would have had the right to participate fairly in the Miss Universe Canada competition.[8] Jenna Talackova's case is one that brings awareness to the public perception and personal opinions pertaining to transgender people competing in pageants.[4]

A similar case occurred later in 2016 when the winner of the Miss Transgender UK, Jai Dara Latto, was stripped of her title after pageant organizers claimed she was not living "full time" as a woman. This was after footage was uncovered of Latto walking around in boxers rather than female undergarments. Latto was pegged as a "drag queen" rather than a transgender woman and proceeded to forfeit her pageant title and earnings. Latto pledged to walk thirty miles in high heels in honor of transgender rights after the allegations.[5]

Both Talackova and Latto's cases raise the question as to who is eligible to win a cisgender pageant and also what qualifications or standards must be met in order for a transgender pageant winner to retain her title. Participants are eligible to compete and win the title of Miss International Queen if they were born male and their sexual or gender identification is that of a female. These recent events have sparked a debate involving the social inclusion and equality that is associated with an individual's sexual and gender identification.[4]

Public perception of transgender beauty pageants

General attitudes towards pageants like Miss International Queen vary among members of the population. Studies have suggested that some people are in favor of transgender inclusion in beauty pageants, while others argue that it is only fair that they compete in pageants that are exclusively for transgender contestants.[4] Although the premise of pageants has varying opinions as well, competitions like Miss International Queen offer the same opportunity to transgender women that individuals who were born female and identify as one have. Recent publications and studies claim that beauty pageants have negative impacts, while other sources suggest that pageants portray the intersectionality and dynamics of gender politics, sexual orientation, and cultural stigmas.[9]

Kathoeys and inclusion

Thailand is well known for its high rates of sex tourism, especially in Pattaya. Miss International Queen pageant and its organization is aiming to show the transgender women that there are alternative career choices. Kathoey typically refers to a transgender woman or a very feminine acting male. A kathoey is often called a ladyboy in the English language.[10] Although Thailand is much more accepting of transgender people than most other countries, the LQBTQ+ community remains stigmatized. Cultural norms still suggest that someone's hobbies, mannerisms, and interests should match one's gender. So, even though kathoeys are accepted in society, a cisgender male working a typically female job is still looked down upon.[11] But, in October 1997, Thailand released a constitution that called for equal rights and treatment for all people, regardless of race, sex, gender, and more. Therefore, Thai culture slowly started to accept all individuals.

Sex reassignment surgery

Trans culture is very prevalent in Thailand due to extensive medical research done and sex-change surgeries. The first documented sex change in Thailand was in 1975, and attitudes and surgical techniques have improved much since then. On 25 November 2009, the Thailand Medical Council released a policy that was titled "Criteria for the treatment of sex change, Census 2009". Since this policy change, ninety percent of those who received a sex change operation are foreigners to Thailand.[12]

Self-esteem

Transgender beauty pageants like Miss International Queen celebrate the contestants and promote awareness of the transgender community. Studies have shown that competing in prestigious beauty pageants are linked to higher levels of self-esteem.[13] These higher levels of self-esteem can stem from a stronger sense of identity experienced after competing against other transgender women. However, finishing as winners or runners-up in the beauty pageants did not further increase levels of self-esteem and confidence.[13] Instead, simply increasing the number of competitions were found to be much more effective in raising self-esteem.[13] This information shows that the result of the beauty pageant is less important in terms of self-esteem than participation in the beauty pageant itself.

Fair competition in female pageants

Transgender-only beauty pageants provide a way for transgender women to fairly compete against one another. Inclusion of transgender women in all-female beauty pageants like Miss Universe is not only less common, but raise questions about fairness of competition. One viewpoint argues that though it is politically correct to include transgender women in beauty pageants, it does not promote the spirit of a fair competition.[4] An analogy given for this theory is through the sex segregation of sports based on physical differences.[4] As most female track and field sprinters cannot run faster than male track and field sprinters because of physiological differences, transgender women cannot always portray the feminine beauty norms that judges in popular beauty pageants critique contestants on. For example, some transgender women cannot achieve the certain look that comes from the wider hips that women tend to have.[4] However, the theory acknowledges that it is difficult to determine which physical inequalities are actually relevant in judging feminine beauty and creating a fair competition.[4] With transgender-only beauty pageants, these inequalities are gone and a platform for equal competition can be established.

Judgment in pageants

Miss International Queen is owned by Tiffany's Show of Pattaya City, Thailand.[14] Its Thai contestants qualify for the competition by winning the title of Miss Tiffany's Universe which also owned by Tiffany's Show Pattaya Co. Ltd.[3] There has been controversy over the look and race of the winners of each year.[4] Over its entirety, an African diaspora trans woman won the crown for the first time in 2019.[4]

Beauty pageants and politics

Studies show that participating in beauty pageants can aid in achieving political office. In the United States, a significant 12 percent of all female governors competed in beauty pageants.[15] Many of the same skills required to compete and do well in beauty pageants apply to politics as well.[citation needed] Some of these overlapping skills include public speaking, poise under pressure, and solicitation of funds.[15] Pageant winners are often viewed as representatives of their hometown, state, or country. This experience in representing one's hometown in beauty pageants have been shown to translate over to prowess in political representation as well.[15]

The number of transgender politicians and beauty pageants are relatively low when compared to their cisgender counterparts. However, beauty pageants can still serve as a way for transgender people to attain political office because the same dynamics of cisgender beauty pageants are present in transgender pageants. Transgender beauty pageants like Miss International Queen not only bring fame and name recognition to its winners, but provide a platform to bring awareness to transgender politics.[16] Transgender beauty pageants represent a springboard to future opportunities for many transgender individuals.[16]

Titleholders

No pageant held in 2008 [a], 2017 [b] and 2021. [c]

Year Country Titleholder National Title Venue Entrants Ref
2024   Peru Catalina Marsano Miss International Queen Peru Pattaya city, Chonburi 23 [17]
2023   Netherlands Solange Dekker Miss International Queen Netherlands 22 [18]
2022   Philippines Fuschia Anne Ravena Miss International Queen Philippines 23 [19]
2021 No pageant held due to the COVID-19 pandemic
2020   Mexico Valentina Fluchaire Miss Trans Nacional México Pattaya city, Chonburi 21
2019   United States Jazell Barbie Royale Miss USA Continental 20
2018   Vietnam Nguyễn Hương Giang Miss International Queen Vietnam 28
2017 No contest due to the death of King Bhumibol Adulyadej
2016   Thailand Jiratchaya Sirimongkolnawin Miss Tiffany's Universe Pattaya city, Chonburi 28
2015   Philippines Trixie Maristela Miss Gay Manila 26 [14]
2014   Venezuela Isabella Santiago Miss Gay Venezuela 21
2013   Brazil Marcela Ohio Miss T Brasil 25 [20]
2012   Philippines Kevin Balot Miss Gay Philippines 25 [21]
2011   Thailand Sirapassorn Atthayakorn Miss Tiffany's Universe 22
2010   South Korea Mini Han Miss Korea Transgender 20 [22]
2009   Japan Ai Haruna Miss International Queen Japan 18 [23]
2008 No contest due to Political Turmoil
2007   Thailand Tanyarat Jirapatpakon Miss Tiffany's Universe Pattaya city, Chonburi 24
2006   Mexico Erica Andrews Miss USA Continental 23 [24]
2005   United States Mimi Marks Miss USA Continental 23
2004   Thailand Treechada Petcharat Miss Tiffany's Universe 22

By number of wins

Country/Territory Titles Winner Year
  Thailand 4 2004, 2007, 2011, 2017
  Philippines 3 2012, 2015, 2022
  Mexico 2 2006, 2020
  United States 2005, 2019
  Peru 1 2024
  Netherlands 2023
  Vietnam 2018
  Venezuela 2014
  Brazil 2013
  South Korea 2010
  Japan 2009

Continents by number of wins

Continent or region Titles Years
Asia 10 2004, 2007, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2015, 2017, 2018, 2022
Americas 7 2005, 2006, 2013, 2014, 2019, 2020, 2024
Europe 1 2023
Africa 0
Oceania 0

List of Runners-up

Year 1st Runners-up 2nd Runners-up
2024 Saruda Panyakham
  Thailand
Nguyễn Tường San
  Vietnam
2023 Qatrisha Zairyah Kamsir
  Singapore
Melony Munro
  United States
2022 Jassmine Jimenez
  Colombia
Aëla Chanel
  France
2021 No pageant held due to the COVID-19 pandemic
2020 Ruethaipreeya Nuanglee
  Thailand
Ariella Moura
  Brazil
2019 Kanwara Kaewjin
  Thailand
Yaya
  China
2018 Jacqueline Angliss Gillies
  Australia
Rinrada Thurapan
  Thailand
2017 Nathalie De Oliveira
  Brazil
Andrea Collazo
  Venezuela
2016 No contest due to the death of King Bhumibol Adulyadej
2015 Valesca Dominik Ferraz
  Brazil
Sopida Siriwattananukoon
  Thailand
2014 Nitsa Katrahong
  Thailand
Piyada Inthavong
  Laos
2013 Shantell D'Marco
  United States
Nethnapada Kanrayanon
  Thailand
2012 Jessika Simões
  Brazil
Panvilas Mongkol
  Thailand
2011 Miss Sahhara
  Nigeria
Margaret
  Lebanon
2010 Ami Takeuchi
  Japan
Stasha Sanchez
  United States
2009 Kangsadal Wongdusadeekul
  Thailand
Daniela Margues
  Brazil
2008 No contest due to Political Turmoil
2007 Aleika Barros
  Brazil
Chanel Madrigal
  Philippines
2006 Patricia Montecarlo
  Philippines
Ratravee Jiraprapakul
  Thailand
2005 Yu Ri
  South Korea
Tiptantree Rujiranon
  Thailand
2004 Arisha Rani
  India
Ma. Cristina Dandan
  Philippines

List of special awards winners

Year Best in National Costume Best in Evening Gown Miss Photogenic Best in Talent Miss Congeniality Miss Popular Vote Miss Perfect Skin Best in Swimming Suite
2024   Vietnam
Nguyễn Tường San
  Thailand
Saruda Panyakham
  Vietnam
Nguyễn Tường San
  United States
Kataluna Enriquez
  Thailand
Saruda Panyakham
  United States
Kataluna Enriquez
  Vietnam
Nguyễn Tường San
  Vietnam
Nguyễn Tường San
-
2023   Vietnam
Nguyễn Hà Dịu Thảo
  United States
Melony Munro
  China
Mika
  Thailand
Arissara Kankla
  Puerto Rico
Tianna Lee Rivera
  Vietnam
Nguyễn Hà Dịu Thảo
- -
2022   Japan
Yushin
  Thailand
Kwanlada Rungrojampa
  Cambodia
Sai Fhon
  Vietnam
Phùng Trương Trân Đài
  Laos
Minladar Engmany
  India
Namitha Marimuthu
- -
2020   Malaysia
Wanie Mohtar
  Mexico
Valentina Fluchaire
  Philippines
Jess Labares
  France
Louiz
  Indonesia
Gebby Vesta
  Vietnam
Bùi Đình Hoài Sa
- -
2019   Nicaragua
Tiffany Colleman
  Brazil
Rafaela Manfrini
  Thailand
Kanwara Kaewjin
  United States
Jazell Barbie Royale
  China
Yaya
  Vietnam
Do Nhat Ha
- -
2018   Indonesia
Dinda Syarif
  Venezuela
Michel Epalza Betancourt
  Brazil
Isabelle Coimbra
  Vietnam
Nguyen Huong Giang
  Honduras
Amelia Vega
  Vietnam
Nguyen Huong Giang
- -
2017   Laos
Wanmai Thammavong
  Brazil
Lavine Holanda
  Philippines
Stacy Biano
  Italy
Roberta Marten
  Malaysia
Star Kong
  Mexico
Giselle Valero
- -
2015   Australia
Sofiya Iya
  Italy
Nicole Fontanell
  Japan
Satsuki
  Australia
Taliah
  Peru
Dayana Valenzuela
  Philippines
Francine Garcia
  Thailand
Sopida Siriwattananukoon
- -
2014   Thailand
Nitsa Katrahong
  Venezuela
Isabella Santiago
  Thailand
Nitsa Katrahong
  United States
Samira Sitara
  Cuba
Yuni Carey
  Laos
Piyada Inthavong
- -
2013   South Korea
Arisa South
  Brazil
Marcela Ohio
  Thailand
Nethnapada Kanrayanon
  Malaysia
Nur Sajat
  Spain
Carolina Medina
  Singapore
Anne Patricia Lee
  Japan
Seri Fujinomiya
  Venezuela
Nohemi Montilla
2012   Japan
Yuki Tachibana
  United States
Sunny Dee Lite
  Philippines
Kevin Balot
  Japan
Tukishima Beni
  Venezuela
Noa Herrera
  Philippines
Stefania Cruz
  Guam
Matrica Mae Centino
  Philippines
Miriam Jimenez
2011   Brazil
Yasmin Dream
  Japan
Karin Fujikawa
  Cuba
Yuni Carey
  China
Lucky
  United States
Mokha Montrese
  Philippines
Marianne Arguelles
  Thailand
Sirapassorn Atthayakorn
  Lebanon
Margaret Keyan
2010   South Korea
Mini
  Thailand
Nalada Thamthanakorn
  Japan
Ami Takeuchi
  Colombia
Melania
  France
Stella Rocha
  Belgium
Barbie Gauthier
  Sweden
Alexandra
-
2009   Thailand
Kangsadal Wongdusadeekul
  United States
Sunny Dee-Lite
  Thailand
Kangsadal Wongdusadeekul
  Japan
Ai Haruna
  Philippines
Godiva Marie Arcachie
  Philippines
Anna Marie
- -
2007   Japan
Beni Tsukishima
  Philippines
Chanel Madrigal
  Colombia
Melania Armenta
  Venezuela
Gresia Rivas
  Germany
Ireen Sue
  Philippines
Rain Marie Madrigal
- -
2006   South Korea
Maria
  Malaysia
Phylliscia Hsuan
  Philippines
Armela Esguera
  United States
Domanigue Shappelle
  Philippines
Shaina Marie Barber
  Philippines
Alexis Marinas Jaromillo
- -
2005   South Korea
Yu Ri
  United States
Mimi Marks
  Philippines
Mary Jane Castro
  United States
Tiffany Ross
  Indonesia
Olivia Lauren
- - -
2004   South Korea
Choi
  India
Arisha Rani
  Taiwan
Angela
-   Germany
Ireen Sue
- -   Thailand
Treechada Petcharat

List of contestants

Color keys
 A  Declared as the winner
  Ended as a first runner-up
  Ended as a second runner-up
  Ended as a semifinalist
  Ended as a quarterfinalist
  Did not participate
  Withdraw during the competition

2020s

2020 – present
Country 2024 2023 2022 2021 2020
  Australia
NO PAGEANT HELD
Jan Brielle
  Bolivia Catalina Ortega
  Brazil Jessy Lira Isabella Santorinne Eloá Rodrigues Ariella Moura
  Cambodia Maiya Van Be Sai Fhon
  Canada Adriana Fernandez Adrian Reyes Patricia Jane Bustillo
  China Asuka Rina Mika Lacey Wang Xinlei
  Colombia Juliana Rivera Gutiérrez Ange La Furcia Jassmine Jimenez
  Ecuador Kenia Bonilla Anahi Ferterling Mirka Alejandra Borja Ochoa
  El Salvador Tatiana Molina
  France Aëla Chanel Louiz Avendei
  Honduras Luciana Romero
  India Arshi Ghosh Namitha Marimuthu Nithush Alimaishani Ghashiksa
  Indonesia Olivia Summer Millen Cyrus Kazzia Doll Gebby Vesta
  Japan Rin Tsuchiya Tomo Yushin Rio Takahashi
  Laos Napatsarakarn Samatmanivong Kanrayany Sisouphanh Minladar Engmany Aliya Sirisopha
  Malaysia Eva Foster Zieyra Alisya Papai Cici Wanie Mohtar
  Mexico Romina Amador Munñiz Ivanna Cazares Alejandra Morales Valentina Fluchaire
  Mongolia Uyanga Hokyatwoklem
  Myanmar Monica May Than Yo †
  Netherlands Solange Dekker
  Nicaragua Brenda López
  Norway Eirin Grinde Tunheim
  Paraguay Fabu Olmedo
  Peru Catalina Marsano Luna Reátegui Javiera Arnillas Cartagena Nataly Saavedra
  Philippines Sophia Nicole Arkanghel Lars Pacheco Fuschia Anne Ravena Jess Labares
  Puerto Rico Daniela Victoria Tianna Lee Rivera Catalina La Bella
  Singapore Qatrisha Zairyah Kamsir Andrea Razali
  South Korea Jin
  Spain Victoria Fernandes
  Sweden Victoria Tran
  Taiwan Ella Allie Liao Loey Wang
  Thailand Saruda Panyakham Arissara Kankla Kwanlada Rungrojampa Ruethaipreeya Nuanglee
  United States Kataluna Enriquez Melony Munro Catalina Cabella Kayley Whalen
  Venezuela Shana Zabala Miranda Monasterios Sofia Salomón
  Vietnam Nguyễn Tường San Nguyễn Hà Dịu Thảo Phùng Trương Trân Đài Bùi Đình Hoài Sa
Total TBA 21 23 22

2010s

2010–2019
Country 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013 2012 2011 2010
  Angola
NO PAGEANT HELD
Imanni De Silva
  Argentina Sofia Solohaga
  Australia Jacqueline Angliss Gillies Taliah Sharleng Gonzalez
Sofiya Iya Victoria Martin
  Belgium Andrea Van Brugghe Barbie Gauthier
  Brazil Rafaela Manfrini Izabele Coimbra Nathalie De Oliveira Valesca Dominik Ferraz Rafaela Manfrini Marcela Ohio Jessika Simões Yasmin Dream Michelly X
Lavine Holanda Raika Ferraz Roberta Holanda Bianca Gold
Mariah Fernanda Veronica Haddad
  Cambodia Reelawadee
  Canada Julie Vu Jenna Talackova
  Chile Daniela Manyoma Venessa Lopes
  China Yaya Ellie Cheng Angel Gaga
  Colombia Mia Gomez Brito Amethyst Dela Espriella Yania Turkiyo Melania Armenta
  Cuba Yuni Carey † Yuni Carey †
  Ecuador Mia Isabella Maquilón Susi Villa
  Egypt Laura Lawrence
  France Livia Nielsen Brittanie Estelle Roedrer Stella Rocha
Herika Borges
  French Polynesia Feleu Myroina
  Germany Naomi Yamaji Renata Ferreira Alessandra Vargas
  Guam Matrica Mae Centino
  Honduras Amelia Vega
  India Veena Sandre Nitasha Biswas Bishesh Huirem Angela Malaika Desingh
  Indonesia Indah Cheryl Dinda Syarif Lily Bakrie Angeline Hanum Dewi Fortuna
Leha Angel Lelga
  Israel Elian Nesiel
  Italy Marianna Melo Roberta Marten Nicole Fontanelli Marry De Francy
  Japan Van Yuko Maika Kunisaki Riyo Mizuno Annabel Yu Satsuki Nishihara Tukishima Beni Karin Fujikawa Ami Takeuchi
Yuma Suzuki Satsuki Lilia Kisaragi Seri Fujinomiya Yuki Tachibana Shima Shyna
Sora Sakuragi Annabel Yu
  South Korea Ssehi Ribbon Park Arisa Kim Mini Han
  Laos Kanrayany Phothimath Longsy Sinakhone Wanmai Thammavong Ninlamon Phimpha Piyada Inthavong
Savannakhet Inleusa Semkam
  Lebanon Margaret Keyan
  Malaysia Larra Jassinta Suki Low Shazzyra Zahry Catherina Chandran Cicie Sinclair Nur Sajat Fariz
Star Kong Nur Hendra Ikram Patricia Asyeera Wong
  Mauritius Anthea Diane
  Mexico Grecia Culpo Anahi Cristobal Altuzar Giselle Valero Brenda Contreras Morgana Gulales
Italia Navarrete Miranda Lambardo
  Mongolia Solongo Amina Solongo
  Myanmar Nann Mway Hnin Juana Paing Lavine Holanda Nan Htet Htet Moon Myo Ko Ko San Tanya Maung
Shaung Than Zin
    Nepal Angel Lama Swastika Lama Aniee Lama Meghna Lama
  Nicaragua Tiffany Colleman Barbie D'Ebano Ithzelle Berdrinadxy Berdien Lavyeska Diedrish Blandino
  Nigeria Miss Sahhara
  Peru Adriana Jya Ghina Chacon Kayra Dayana Valenzuela
  Philippines Nicole Guevarra Flores Carla Marie Madrigal Sabel Gonzales Trixie Maristela Kim Marie Villagalano Kristina Cassandra Ybarra Kevin Balot Hazel Andrada Bembem Radaza
Francine Garcia Andrea Justine Aliman Michelle Montecarlo Marianne Arguelles Chelsea Marie
Stacy Biano Maria Venus Gomez Miriam Jimenez Claire Harlow
Michelle Binas Godiva Marie Archachia Stefania Cruz Michelle Binas Miranda Diana Kerr
Nixie Salonga
  Romania Tanja
  Russia Veronika Svetlova Veronika Svetlova Varvara Strange
  Singapore Priyanka Raichanel Anne Patricia Lee Marla Vera Cheryl Isabella
  South Africa Anastasia Jemiskavegus
  Spain Mishella Cristini Couto Carolina Medina Nikki Normanson Mascenon
  Sri Lanka Noel Tokuhisa Chamila Chamila
  Sweden Alexandra Bryngelsson
  Thailand Kanwara Kaewjin Rinrada Thurapan Jiratchaya Sirimong-konnawin Sophida Siriwat-tananukoon Nitsa Kedrahong Netnapha Kanlayanon Pronvilai Mongkol Siraphatsron Atayakron Nonlada Tumthanakron
  Turkey Nez Sayginer Basak Buldaq Yanki Bayramoglu Deniz Tukylu
Zuzi Narin
  United Kingdom Francesca Camicia
  United States Jazell Barbie Royale Kataluna Enriquez Camille Anderson Adriana Mallea Samira Sitara Shantell I’m D'Marco Sunny Dee Lite Mokha Montrese Stasha Sanchez
Mokha Montrese Silkie O'Hara Munro Sunny Dee Lite
Ruby Bella Cruz
  Venezuela Sofia Colmenarez Michel Epalza Betancourt Andrea Collazo Isabella Santiago Chanel Lopèz Noa Herrera Noa Herrera
Nohemi Montillai Chanel Lopèz
  Vietnam Do Nhat Ha Nguyễn Hương Giang Bella Angelina May Nguyen
Total 20 28 29 26 22 25 25 23 21

2000s

2004–2009
Country 2009 2008 2007 2006 2005 2004
  Australia
NO PAGEANT HELD
Kathryn Cole
  Brazil Daniela Marques Aleika Barros Andressa Piovani
  China Maggie Gao
  Colombia Melania Armenta Diana Mascaros
  Costa Rica Ruby Bella Cruz
  Egypt Darlene Illyana
  France Sylvie Iynn
  Germany Irene Sue Irene Sue Irene Sue
  Hong Kong Yan
  India Arisha Rani
  Indonesia Sylvia Olivia Lauren Chenny Han
Megie
Vena
  Italy Patricia Binotto Alessandra Da Costa
  Japan Ai Haruna Ai Haruna Baby Christina Andaya Kanon Maruyama Tomo
Bemi Tukishima Beni Tukishima Fujiko Sakaki
Yuki Saejima Shining Shyna Hikaru Asakawa Tsukasa Yamazaki Miki Yoshikawa
Tsukusa Yamazaki
  South Korea Maria Yu Ri Choi
Eun Kyung
  Laos Chantha Petchsrikwa Sendgao
  Malaysia Roxaanne Fonseka Natasha Lim Phylliscia Hsuan Ally Arena Tech Natasha Aziz
Shasha Emmanuel
  Mexico Sofia Montana Erica Andrews
    Nepal Sandhya Lama Akanchya Moktan
Anjali Lama
Bhumika Shrestha
  Philippines Anna Marie Gauten Chanel Madrigal Patricia Montecarlo Donita Gauten Ma Cristina Dandan
Rain Marie Madrigal Armela Esguera Mika Lee Adriana
Godiva Marie Arcachie Francine Garcia Joyce Sean Pacifico Apple Pie Mendoza
Katrina Ileth Halili
Jamby Lim Garcia Joanna Castillanes Alexis Marinas Jaromillo Mary Jane Castro
Donita Crown Linapacan Michelle
Maria Selita Erica Fideroa Perla Quigaman Kristina Madrigal Sara Gomiz Trono
Shaina Maria Barber
  Puerto Rico Naysha Lopez Jazmine International
  Singapore Camillia Dzelma Sonia Slizstar
   Switzerland Bruna Gabral
Camila Pryns
  Taiwan Angela
Cher
  Thailand Kangsadal Wongdu-sadeekul Tanyarat Jirapatpakon Ratravee Jiraprapakul Tiptantree Rujiranon Treechada Petcharat
Sorrawee Nattee
  United Kingdom Asunta Mae Melania Robles Lacson Leah True
  United States Sunny De Lite Domanique Shappelle Mimi Marks
Tiffany Ross
Stacey Jacobs Asia Vitale Zsane' Braxton
Victoria Rall
  Venezuela Gresia Rivas
Total 18 24 23 18 22

List of Miss International Queen countries

Country Debut Entrants Years competed National pageant Placements Best placement First placed Last placed
  Angola 2012 1 2012 1 Top 10
  • Imanni De Silva (2012)
2012
  • Imanni De Silva (Top 10)
2012
  • Imanni De Silva (Top 10)
  Argentina 2018 1 2018 0
  Australia 2006 5 2006
2013
2015
2018
2020
Miss Transsexual Australia 2 1st Runner-up
  • Jacqueline Gillies (2018)
2018
  • Jacqueline Gillies (1st Runner-up)
2020
  • Jan Brielle (Top 6)
  Belgium 2015 2 2010
2015
0
  Brazil 2005 15 2005
2007–present
Miss Beleza T Brasil 12 Winner 2005
  • Andressa (Top 10)
2020
  • Ariella Moura (2nd Runner-up)
  Cambodia 2016 3 2016
2022–present
Miss Queen Cambodia 0
  Canada 2010 4 2010
2019
2022–present
Miss Internacional Queen Canada 1 Top 10 2010 2010
  Chile 2011 2 2011
2014
1 Top 10
  • Vanessa Lopes (2011)
2011
  • Vanessa Lopes (Top 10)
2011
  • Vanessa Lopes (Top 10)
  China 2009 6 2009
2011
2018–2020

2023–present

3 2nd Runner-up 2019
  • Yaya (2nd Runner-up)
2023
  • Mika (Top 11)
  Colombia 2006 8 2006–2007
2010–2011
2017–2018
2022–present
Miss Internacional Queen Colombia 2 Top 10
  • Melania Armenta (2010)
2010
  • Melania Armenta (Top 10)
2023
  • Angela Furcia (Top 11)
  Costa Rica 2007 1 2007 0
  Cuba 2011 2 2011
2014
2 Top 10
  • Yuni Carey (2011)
  • Yuni Carey (2014)
2011
  • Yuni Carey (Top 10)
2014
  • Yuni Carey (Top 10)
  Ecuador 2010 5 2010
2019–present
Miss Queen Ecuador 1 Top 12
  • Mia Isabella Maquilón (2019)
2019
  • Mia Isabella Maquilón (Top 12)
2019
  • Mia Isabella Maquilón (Top 12)
  Egypt 2006 2 2006
2017
0
  France 2004 7 2004
2010–2011
2015
2018
2020–2022
Miss T France 2 Top 6
  • Louiz Avendei (2020)
2010
  • Stella Rocha (Top 10)
2020
  • Louiz Avendei (Top 6)
  French Polynesia 2012 1 2012 0
  Germany 2004 5 2004–2005
2007
2011
2017
0
  Guam 2012 1 2012 1 Top 10
  • Matrica Mae Centino (2012)
2012
  • Matrica Mae Centino (Top 10)
2012
  • Matrica Mae Centino (Top 10)
  Honduras 2018 2 2018

2022

Miss Queen Internacional Honduras 1 Top 12 2018
  • Amelia Vega (Top 12)
2018
  • Amelia Vega (Top 12)
  Hong Kong 2004 1 2004 0
  India 2004 8 2004
2011
2013
2017–2022
Miss Transqueen India 2 1st Runner-up
  • Arisha Rani (2004)
2004
  • Arisha Rani (1st Runner-up)
2019
  • Veena Sandre (Top 12)
  Indonesia 2004 11 2004–2006
2012–2013
2017–present
Miss Queen Indonesia 0
  Israel 2018 1 2018 0
  Italy 2006 6 2006–2007
2011
2015
2017–2018
1 Top 6
  • Marianna Melo (2018)
2018
  • Marianna Melo (Top 6)
2018
  • Marianna Melo (Top 6)
  Japan 2004 16 2004–present Miss International Queen Japan 11 Winner
  • Ai Haruna (2009)
2004
  • Tomo (Top 10)
2019
  • Van (Top 6)
  South Korea 2004 7 2004–2006
2010
2014
2019
2022
Miss International Queen Korea 5 Winner
  • Mini Han (2010)
2004
  • Eun Kyung (Top 10)
2019
  • Ssehi (Top 12)
  Laos 2004 7 2004–2005
2014
2016–present
Miss Queen Laos 5 2nd Runner-up 2005
  • Chantha Petchsrikwa (Top 10)
2020
  • Aliya Sirisopha (Top 12)
  Lebanon 2011 1 2011 1 2nd Runner-up
  • Margaret Keyan (2011)
2011
  • Margaret Keyan (2nd Runner-up)
2011
  • Margaret Keyan (2nd Runner-up)
  Malaysia 2004 13 2004–2009
2013–present
Miss World Dannok 7 Top 6
  • Larra Jassinta (2019)
2004
  • Natasha Aziz (Top 10)
2020
  • Wanie Mohtar (Top 12)
  Mauritius 2015 1 2015 0
  Mexico 2006 11 2006–2007
2015–present
Miss Trans Nacional Mexico 5 Winner 2006 2023
  • Ivanna Cazares (Top 6)
  Mongolia 2014 3 2014
2018–2020
1 Top 12
  • Solongo (2018)
2018
  • Solongo (Top 12)
2018
  • Solongo (Top 12)
  Myanmar 2013 7 2013–2020 Miss International Queen Myanmar 0
    Nepal 2007 6 2007–2010
2017–2019
Miss Pink Nepal 0
  Netherlands 2023 1 2023–present Miss International Queen Netherlands 1 Winner
  • Solange Dekker (2023)
Winner
  • Solange Dekker (2023)
Winner
  • Solange Dekker (2023)
  Nicaragua 2012 5 2012
2014
2018–2019
2023-present
Miss International Queen Nicaragua 0
  Nigeria 2011 1 2011 1 1st Runner-up 2011 2011
  Norway 2020 1 2020 1 Top 12
  • Eirin Grinde Tunheim (2020)
2020
  • Eirin Grinde Tunheim (Top 12)
2020
  • Eirin Grinde Tunheim (Top 12)
  Panama 2019 1 2019 0
  Paraguay 2022 1 2022 Miss International Queen Paraguay
  Peru 2015 8 2015–present Miss International Queen Peru 1 Winner 2019
  • Adriana Jya (Top 12)
2024
  Philippines 2004 17 2004–present Miss International Queen Philippines 16 Winner 2004
  • Ma Cristina Dandan (2nd Runner-up)
  • Michelle (Top 10)
  • Apple Pie Mendoza (Top 10)
2024
  • Sophia Nicole Arkanghel(Top 6)
  Puerto Rico 2007 4 2007–2009
2022–present
Miss Puerto Rico International Queen 1 Top 10
  • Jazmine International (2007)
2007
  • Jazmine International (Top 10)
2007
  • Jazmine International (Top 10)
  Romania 2012 1 2012 0
  Russia 2011 3 2011–2012
2014
0
  Singapore 2004 8 2004
2009–2010
2012–2013
2015
2020

2023–present

Miss International Queen Singapore 2 1st Runner-up
  • Qatrisha Zairyah (2023)
2004
  • Sonia Slizstar (Top 10)
2023
  • Qatrisha Zairyah (1st Runner-up)
  South Africa 2013 1 2013 1 Top 10
  • Anastasia South (2013)
2013
  • Anastasia South (Top 10)
2013
  • Anastasia South (Top 10)
  Spain 2012 5 2012–2014
2017

2023–present

2 Top 10
  • Cristini Couto (2014)
2014
  • Cristini Couto (Top 10)
2023
  • Victoria Fernandes (Top 11)
  Sri Lanka 2010 3 2010–2011
2018
1 Top 12
  • Noel Tokuhisa (2018)
2018
  • Noel Tokuhisa (Top 12)
2018
  • Noel Tokuhisa (Top 12)
  Sweden 2010 2 2010

2020

1 Top 10
  • Anastasia Bryngelsson (2010)
2010
  • Anastasia Bryngelsson (Top 10)
2010
  • Anastasia Bryngelsson (Top 10)
   Switzerland 2007 1 2007 1 Top 10
  • Bruna Gabral (2007)
2007
  • Bruna Gabral (Top 10)
2007
  • Bruna Gabral (Top 10)
  Taiwan 2004 3 2004
2020

2022

Miss International Queen Taiwan 1 Top 12 2020
  • Loey Wang (Top 12)
2020
  • Loey Wang (Top 12)
  Thailand 2004 17 2004–present Miss Tiffany 17 Winner 2004 2023
  • Arissara Kankla (Top 6)
  Turkey 2012 4 2012
2014–2015
2017
But Trans Güzellik Yarişmasi 2 Top 10
  • Basak Buldaq (2012)
  • Yanki Bayramoglu (2014)
2012
  • Basak Buldaq (Top 10)
2014
  • Yanki Bayramoglu (Top 10)
  United States 2005 16 2005–2006
2009–present
Miss International Queen USA 10 Winner 2005 2023
  • Melony Munro (2nd Runner-up)
  United Kingdom 2006 3 2006–2009
2018
Miss TS International UK 1 Top 10
  • Asunta Mae (2009)
2009
  • Asunta Mae (Top 10)
2009
  • Asunta Mae (Top 10)
  Venezuela 2007 8 2007
2011–2014
2017–2019
2022–present
Miss International Queen Venezuela 5 Winner
  • Isabella Santiago (2014)
2011
  • Noa Herrera (Top 10)
2023
  • Miranda Monasterios (Top 11)
  Vietnam 2014 7 2014
2016–present
Miss International Queen Vietnam 4 Winner
  • Jennifer Nguyễn Hương Giang (2018)
2018
  • Jennifer Nguyễn Hương Giang (Winner)
2023
  • Nguyễn Hà Dịu Thảo (Top 11)

Controversy

Eva Foster’s Complaint, MIQ 2024 event

Eva Foster, a participant in Miss International Queen (MIQ) 2024, voiced concerns about the pageant, accusing it of favoritism and unprofessionalism. She was disappointed about not reaching the top 12 despite her strong showing, especially in the evening gown segment. Foster also mentioned that other contestants, including those from Indonesia and India, shared her concerns that the competition was influenced by factors beyond merit. After the controversy sparked by her remarks at Miss International Queen (MIQ) 2024, Eva Foster took to social media to offer a sincere apology, particularly to the people of Thailand. In her apology, Foster expressed profound regret for any misunderstandings or offense her actions may have caused.[25]

Notes

  1. ^ No contest due to Political Turmoil
  2. ^ No contest due to the death of King Bhumibol Adulyadej
  3. ^ No contest due to the COVID-19 pandemic

References

  1. ^ "This Is Life with Lisa Ling" Transbeauty (TV Episode 2017) - IMDb, retrieved 2021-03-01
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  3. ^ a b "Pictures of Transgenders,Transvestites at Miss International Queen Contest [PHOTOS]". International Business Times. 7 November 2012.
  4. ^ a b c d e f g h i j Bialystok, Lauren (July 2016). "Transgender Inclusion in Single-Sex Competition: The Case of Beauty Pageants". Social Theory & Practice. 42: 605–635. doi:10.5840/soctheorpract201642318 – via Frontiers: A Journal of Women Studies.
  5. ^ a b Swerling, Gabriella (29 February 2016). "Beauty queen loses title for 'not being transgender enough'". The Times.
  6. ^ Tamilin, Emily R.; Quinlan, Margaret M.; Bates, Benjamin R. (2017-09-01). "Accessing Womanhood: Jenna Talackova and the Marking of a Beauty Queen". Sexuality & Culture. 21 (3): 703–718. doi:10.1007/s12119-017-9416-z. ISSN 1095-5143. S2CID 151856627.
  7. ^ Daniels, Anthony (26 April 2012). "Differently the Same". National Review.
  8. ^ Smith, Gwendolyn Ann (4 April 2012). "Transmissions: Universal discrimination". Bay Area Reporter.
  9. ^ Lieu, Nhi T. (2013). "Beauty Queens Behaving Badly: Gender, Global Competition, and the Making of Post-Refugee Neoliberal Vietnamese Subjects". Frontiers: A Journal of Women Studies. 34 (1): 25. doi:10.5250/fronjwomestud.34.1.0025.
  10. ^ Ojanen, Timo T. (June 2009). "Sexual/gender minorities in Thailand: Identities, challenges, and voluntary-sector counseling". Sexuality Research and Social Policy. 6 (2): 4–34. doi:10.1525/srsp.2009.6.2.4.
  11. ^ Jackson, Peter A.; Sullivan, Gerard (9 April 1999). "A Panoply of Roles: Sexual and Gender Diversity in Contemporary Thailand". Journal of Gay & Lesbian Social Services. 9 (2–3): 1–27. doi:10.1300/J041v09n02_01.
  12. ^ Chokrungvaranont, Prayuth; Selvaggi, Gennaro; Jindarak, Sirachai; Angspatt, Apichai; Pungrasmi, Pornthep; Suwajo, Poonpismai; Tiewtranon, Preecha (2014). "The Development of Sex Reassignment Surgery in Thailand: A Social Perspective". The Scientific World Journal. 2014: 1–5. doi:10.1155/2014/182981. PMC 3977439. PMID 24772010.
  13. ^ a b c Thompson, S. H.; Hammond, K. (September 2003). "Beauty is as beauty does: Body image and self-esteem of pageant contestants". Eating and Weight Disorders - Studies on Anorexia, Bulimia and Obesity. 8 (3): 231–237. doi:10.1007/BF03325019. PMID 14649788.
  14. ^ a b "Miss International Queen 2015". mb. November 8, 2015. Archived from the original on 2015-11-17. Retrieved November 9, 2015.
  15. ^ a b c Hinojosa, Magda; Carle, Jill (2 January 2016). "From Miss World to World Leader: Beauty Queens, Paths to Power, and Political Representations". Journal of Women, Politics & Policy. 37 (1): 24–46. doi:10.1080/1554477X.2016.1116298.
  16. ^ a b "Meet The Winner Of The World's Largest Transgender Beauty Pageant". Huffington Post. Reuters. 2017-03-10. Retrieved 2017-11-15.
  17. ^ "You can join us in the pursuit of a WORLD built on EQUALITY". Miss International Queen. November 11, 2023. Retrieved November 11, 2023.
  18. ^ "Nederlandse Solange Dekker wint grootste missverkiezing voor trans vrouwen" (in Dutch). NOS. June 25, 2023. Retrieved June 25, 2023.
  19. ^ "Philippine bet Fuschia Anne Ravena wins Miss International Queen 2022". GMA Network. June 26, 2022. Retrieved June 26, 2022.
  20. ^ "Miss International Queen 2013: Miss Brazil Marcelo Ohio Wins Transvestite Beauty Pageant". International Business Times. 4 November 2013. Retrieved 31 October 2015.
  21. ^ "Miss International Queen 2012 Transsexual and Transgender Crown Goes to Philippines [PHOTOS]". International Business Times. 3 November 2012. Retrieved 31 October 2015.
  22. ^ "Korean wins transvestite pageant in Thailand". The China Post. 21 November 2010. Retrieved 31 October 2015.
  23. ^ "Gallery: The glitz and glamour of Miss International Queen 2009". CNN Travel. 3 November 2009. Retrieved 31 October 2015. (Need to scroll through images to find information in the images' caption)
  24. ^ "Mexican transsexual crowned beauty queen". China Daily. 30 October 2006. Retrieved 31 October 2015.
  25. ^ Haschinta, Natalie (2024-08-30). "Miss International Queen Eva Foster Criticizes MIQ 2024 As "A Cooking Show" | TRP". The Rakyat Post. Retrieved 2024-08-30.