In Spain, a transsexual model by the name of Angela Ponce, 26, just beat out 22 other contestants to represent the country in the Miss Universe pageant later this year.
On her Instagram, Ms. Ponce wrote after her win:
‘Bringing the name and colors of Spain before the universe is my great dream.My goal is to be a spokesperson for a message of inclusion, respect and diversity not only for the LGBTQ+ community but also for the entire world.’
Previously transgender contestants were banned from competition but in 2012 Canadian model Jenna Talackova successfully sued Miss Universe Canada organizers for initially disqualifying her for being transgender. Way to make history, Ms. Ponce!