Two years after winning the Miss France Trans sash, Khaleesy Mai will represent French Polynesia in the Miss Trans International competition. She is the second transgender Polynesian to carry the country’s flag abroad.
« Representing Tahiti resonates much more in me than representing France », enthuses Khaleesy Mai, originally from Rurutu. HAS a few days before the election, Miss T France 2022-2023 is divided between stress and excitement, but above all she feels a lot of pride.
After being elected Miss T France two years ago, the young woman is launching a new challenge: participating in the Miss Trans International competition, 6th of the name. A significant investment for Khaleesy who is running as an independent candidate. She had to pay 600 euros, or approximately 72,000 Pacific francs.
« I knew that after the national level, you have to go international. It wasn’t in my plans at the moment, but I knew it was a future goal. »
This personal initiative is a way of “ thank all the people who have followed me for a long time and for whom I am an inspiration ».
Because since her coronation, Khaleesy Mai has continued to fight to make the voice of her community heard, some members of which are still victims of homophobic remarks or physical violence.
There are still crumbs and I wish these crumbs would disappear once and for all! A transgender woman does not equal prostitution. I’m not, and I want to repeat that for as long as I’m alive. This is what I will defend in the Miss International Trans competition, that of the sexualization of transgender women.
Since her registration request was validated, Khaleesy has been actively preparing. Between photo shoots and different courses, her schedule is full.
The level is different and preparation is therefore essential. I take elocution and foreign language lessons. The minimum in an international competition is to speak English. With this, there is also public speaking, cat walk lessons, ease and poise on stage. And finally, I also take beauty classes. Because a Miss must be able to do her makeup and do her hair on her own.
In her preparation, Khaleesy Mai can count on the support of the famous Polynesian stylist and designer Manuaraii Teauroa. The man is also from Rurutu. A sizable audience since Khaleesy doesn’t have a committee, but who cares? My Dear Tahiti (Manuarii Teauroa, editor’s note) and I are forming a committee ».
The Miss Trans International election will take place on December 7 in Liège, Belgium. It can be followed live on the organizing committee’s YouTube page.
Khaleesy Mai on her way to Miss Trans International
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© Khaleesi Mai
