Trans model makes history as Miss Netherlands and prepares for Miss Universe

Rikkie Valerie Kollé, a transgender model and actress, has been crowned Miss Netherlands and will compete in the Miss Universe pageant, becoming the second openly transgender woman to do so. Kollé, who underwent gender-affirming surgery earlier this year, aims to be a role model for young women and the queer community, inspiring them to embrace their true selves. The Miss Universe pageant first allowed transgender participation in 2012, and while no transgender woman has won the title yet, more are entering preliminary pageants. The competition will take place in El Salvador later this year.