In a groundbreaking moment for the Netherlands, 22-year-old model and actress Rikkie Valerie Kolle has been crowned Miss Netherlands 2023. This victory marks the first time a transgender woman has won the title, paving the way for Kolle to compete in the upcoming Miss Universe pageant in El Salvador.

Kolle expressed her excitement and pride on Instagram, stating, "I DID IT! It's unreal, but I get to call myself [Miss Netherland] 2023. This journey has been incredibly enriching and beautiful. I'm overflowing with pride and happiness. I'm thrilled to represent my community and demonstrate that anything is possible." She further emphasized her individuality, adding, "I'm trans and I'm eager to share my story, but I'm also Rikkie, and that's what truly matters to me. I embarked on this journey independently and cherished every single moment."

Kolle's win follows a recent trend of transgender women participating in beauty pageants. In 2021, Kataluna Enriquez made history as the first transgender woman to win Miss Nevada USA. Enriquez, then 27, triumphed over 21 other contestants, marking a significant milestone in pageant history. The Miss Nevada USA Instagram page celebrated her victory, posting a photo of Enriquez with the caption, "Congratulations to… [Kataluna Enriquez]. History made!" For the competition, Enriquez wore a dazzling rainbow sequin gown, which she described as a tribute to Pride Month and "all of those who don't get a chance to spread their colors."

These victories build upon the precedent set by Canadian model Jenna Talackova, who competed in the Miss Universe Canada pageant in 2012. Kolle's win as Miss Netherlands 2023 signifies another step forward in the evolving landscape of beauty pageants and representation.