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The fact that Rikkie Kolle was the first transgender woman to be elected Miss Netherlands is also news beyond Dutch borders. This is particularly the case in Belgium, France, Germany and the United States.
The American Entertainment Site TMZ points out that Kolle is not the first transgender woman to compete for the Miss Universe title. Spaniard Angela Ponce was the first in 2018.
In recent years, more and more transgender women have entered the pageant. The owner of the Miss Universe pageant, Anne Jakrajutatip, is also a transgender woman.
Die Welt compares the Dutch election with the version in Germany. At Miss Germany, Saskia von Bargen, also transgender, missed out on the title and came in second.
“This victory is important and inspiring”
Transgender Network Netherlands calls Kolle’s win “inspirational and important”. Chairman Remke Verdegem said “Positive role models can give you the strength to keep standing up for yourself. Rikkie shows how beautiful and important it is to be yourself.”
The president is enthusiastic that Miss Netherlands wants to get involved “for trans people who face rejection by their family or environment. Unfortunately, this is a problem for many people in our community”.
According to the judging panel, the winner “shone throughout the entire show and also made the greatest strides in the process. She has a strong story with a clear mission.”
