Held in Brighton, UK, on 24 November 2017, this is a pageant with a difference. Forget swimsuit rounds and juding by appearances, this is about raising awareness of the issues affecting transgender people and reducing stigma and discrimination. Contestants went head-to-head, not to be the best ‘beauty queen’, but to be the biggest fundraiser, in support of a charity working with transgender youth.
Here’s how the night went, in pictures.
Samantha, a professional make-up artist from Essex, prepares for the Miss Transgender UK 2017 final in Brighton on 24 November 2017.
“I’m from Essex, or ‘Orange County’ as I like to call it,” says Samantha.
Pageant essentials. Chanel, blingy stilettos and wings. Everyone wants to look their best, but the event is also much more meaningful.
Backstage before the kick-off of Miss Transgender UK 2017. There are five finalists.
Bea, from Doncaster has brought her “make-up-artist and PA” friend, Jessica, with her.
The night starts with a silent vigil for Transgender Remembrance Day, to honour people who have lost their lives as the journey to equality continues.
Jaimie takes to the catwalk. She’s lead singer in an all trans punk electro band in Manchester.
Backstage, outfit changes take place between heats.
Bea soars down the runway in light-up wings she made herself.
Katie, an ex oil driller from Poland, believes mindfulness and meditation can help people on their personal journey. She’s a proud parent of two children.
Samantha is introduced in the outfit she made. “Well my Nan made it, I helped.”
Jade’s husband takes a photo as she takes to the runway for the ‘creation’ round. They’re going to see Mariah Carey for their first wedding anniversary next month.
The crowd whoop in appreciation of Jade’s design as she struts down the red carpet.
The previous year’s winner congratulates all the runway walks.
Bea makes her pageant speech. She’s secured funding for a transgender support group in Doncaster, UK.
Samantha wins ‘best speech’. “Difference is good”, she says “it should be embraced”.
The founder, Rachael, prepares to announce the top fundraiser and pageant queen.
Bea is crowned ‘Miss Transgender UK 2017’.
Samantha has also won - a £15,000 modelling contract in Thailand. She may also travel to Thailand for surgery, taking her brother for support.
At the after party for the key ladies of Miss Transgender UK 2017. L-R: The winner (Bea), the founder (Rachael), and the runner-up (Jaimie).