She didn’t make the top 30, but Huong Giang broke boundaries as the first Asian transgender woman to compete at Miss Universe.
It was a bittersweet ending for Huong Giang at the Miss Universe 2025 final in Thailand on the morning of November 21. She did not make it into the top 30 - but the result was not a loss.
It was, in fact, a historic win.
Huong Giang became the first transgender woman from Asia to compete at Miss Universe - a milestone that resonated far beyond the stage.
Although the competition has allowed transgender contestants since 2012, it wasn’t until 2018 that Angela Ponce from Spain became the first to compete. In 2023, two transgender women - Marina Machete of Portugal and Rikkie Kollé of the Netherlands - joined the stage, with Marina placing in the top 20.
In 2025, Huong Giang proudly represented Vietnam, and Asia.
Her selection in September sparked heated debate online. But with over 4 million followers on Instagram and millions more across platforms, she quickly became a media focal point.
Huong Giang blends in effortlessly with fellow Miss Universe 2025 contestants.
Initially, she faced skepticism - even hostility - from parts of the public. But through grace, charm, and authenticity, she won hearts and turned critics into supporters.
Throughout the competition, she participated in all events: closed-door interviews, swimwear, evening gown, national costume, social outreach, and sightseeing.
And while embracing the global stage, her heart remained with her homeland.
As floods devastated central Vietnam and Dak Lak, Huong Giang donated funds for relief efforts and expressed her solidarity online.
Her performances in each round drew praise, especially her national costume: a white ao dai paired with a bicycle, conical hat, and school bag.
Huong Giang's outfits made a strong impression and drew significant attention.
In a contest known for dazzling displays, her understated look stood out.
The white ao dai symbolized a personal dream long denied - attending school in that iconic Vietnamese uniform. Before transitioning, societal barriers and personal struggle kept that dream out of reach.
On the Miss Universe stage, she finally wore it with pride.
It was a quiet act of bravery: choosing simplicity amid spectacle, subtlety in a setting that rewards grandeur.
She didn’t need extravagance to be noticed. Her message was more powerful than any jewel or feathered cape.
Though Huong Giang received no official titles, her appearance redefined the contest’s values.
She turned a schoolgirl’s uniform into a cultural symbol. She proved that authenticity, not just aesthetics, belongs on the world stage.
Huong Giang wears a white ao dai on stage during the national costume presentation show.
Huong Giang on stage at the Miss Universe 2025 grand finale.
Huong Giang reminded the world that anyone - regardless of gender identity, age, or background - has the right to dream, to compete, and to shine.
Her journey resonated deeply, especially across Asia, where societal acceptance of LGBTQ individuals still faces many hurdles.
Vietnam’s decision to send her was not just a bold move - it was a statement. A reflection of growing progress and awareness in a traditionally conservative region.
Throughout the competition, her story was widely shared and celebrated by international media.
Many hailed her as a symbol of visibility, courage, and positive change.
That’s why Miss Universe wasn’t an end, but a beginning - for Huong Giang and for countless others seeking the courage to live as they are.
She may not have worn the crown, but she claimed something more enduring: the power to inspire, to shift perceptions, and to open new doors for those who follow.
Vietnamnet.vn
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