Pinay trans beauty queen Keylyn Trajano to represent Arabia in Universal Woman 2025
Aim high, Trans Pinay!
Keylyn Trajano, a proud Filipina transgender beauty queen, is set to make history as she represents Arabia in the upcoming Universal Woman 2025, making her the "first ever transwoman to represent any country" in the said pageant.
In a social media post, Universal Woman Arabia described Trajano as a woman of "strength, grace, and timeless beauty."
"Her eyes hold the secrets of a thousand stories, a reflection of strength, grace, and timeless beauty," the caption read.
In case you didn't know, the Universal Woman pageant "invites women from all backgrounds." They welcomed 21-45-year-old women without height, weight, or marital status requirements.
"This is the new era of beauty where beauty shines through confidence in who we are and the positive impact women make in our society," it said.
Likewise, the international pageant is "a platform that champions the unique brilliance and beauty of women making a positive impact in the world today." They also unite, celebrate, and advance women's contributions, diverse beauty, and accomplishments.
Meanwhile, Trajano's feat as Universal Woman-Arabia is not the first time she has made history in the world of pageantry.
In November 2024, Miss Universe Philippines Pampanga announced her as one of the 16 hopefuls to represent the province at the national competition. She is the first-ever trans woman to join the local pageant.
However, earlier this year, Trajano withdrew from the pageant, underscoring that pulling out of the pageant does not mean she is "quitting or backing down on a fight."
"This journey has been nothing short of incredible—filled with growth, inspiring connections, and an unwavering belief in the power of dreams and ensuring my community can finally be seen, heard, and uplifted," she wrote at that time.
"However, I've come to a point of understanding and acceptance: as much as my heart beats for this opportunity, my current commitments in business and corporate ventures demand my focus and presence," she added. "And knowing that the country still isn't ready for change, my stable avenues are things I cannot simply let go," she said.
She went on to say that it would be "unfair" to herself and her responsibilities if she couldn't give it her full dedication even as a mere applicant
Trajano highlighted that quitting the pageant is not a sign of weakness.
"This isn't an end, but rather a redirection toward paths that align with my current purpose. I've always advocated for knowing when the time is now, and saying yes to bigger steps towards change. But maybe now isn't the time and for me choosing to say 'No!' is still a win on its own," she said.
"Accepting defeat and letting go is the greatest sign of maturity because not everything is about fighting for the people or for what we think is right. My presence in itself, showing courage and bravery, was already enough of a 'KEY' for me to make a mark in this industry," she continued.
According to her, even if she were to be selected as Pampanga's representative for the MUPh competition, she would still back out and give the position to one of her fellow queens as she believes they deserve it more.
"I know where I stand and I have a different fight than most and I accepted it from the get-go," she said.
"Just being seen through my capabilities in competing, joining, and given a chance to hold the mic to voice out why I am here is enough, a privilege to start positive conversation and understanding amongst our society and community is enough for me, and that's that!" she explained.
Prior to this, Trajano participated in Century Tuna Superbods in July 2024, where she finished in the Top 8 and won the Fitness Breakthrough Award.
Meanwhile, the Philippines will be represented by Miss World Philippines 2024 1st runner-up Jasmine Omay.
The Universal Woman 2025 competition will take place from May 29 to June 8 in Jaipur, India, where the Philippines' Maria Gigante will crown her successor.
