Miss Tiffany’s Universe

misstiffanyuniverse.com organizes a beauty contest in Thailand. It has taken place annually since the 80s’.

The contest is open to all transgender women who may or may not have gone through sex reassignment surgery. “Ladyboy” or “kathoey” are commonly used terms in Thailand to describe effeminate gay males or transgender women. Each year, about 100 candidates from across Thailand apply to take part in the pageant. All contestants need to have Thai nationality and be between the age of 18 and 25. Contestants under the age of 20 are required to obtain parental permission to be eligible. Contestants come from a variety of backgrounds, including university students, doctors, engineers, pharmacists, etc. Once chosen to participate in the pageant, the contestants are judged based on physical attributes and overall performance in accordance with the feminine ideal.

The winner receives a trophy and crown, car, cash prizes, jewelry, and other gifts from sponsors.

The Miss Tiffany’s contest held once a year is receiving more attention especially since it is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.