Rikkie Valerie de Kolle has made history by becoming the first transgender model to win the prestigious title of Miss Netherlands. It’s the first time a #transgenderwoman has been crowned in the beauty pageant’s history.
The 22-year-old Dutch-Moluccan model won the pageant by defeating Habiba Mostafa, Lou Dirchs and Nathalie Mogbelzada during a glitzy ceremony held in Amsterdam on Saturday. This historic win cements her spot as a contestant for the coveted 72nd Miss Universe title.
The beauty queen said she wants to be a voice and role model for young women and queer people and use her platform to empower others to fight against discrimination.
