Ángela Ponce becomes first trans Miss Universe contestant

After lifting their ban on trans people in 2012, the Miss Universe pageant will finally have its first trans contestant in Ángela Ponce. The 26-year-old has nabbed the Miss Universe Spain title and is on her way to compete on the global stage for her home country.

“Bringing the name and colours of Spain before the universe is my great dream,” Ponce wrote on Instagram. “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.”