An international beauty pageant will now be hosted by a transgender woman after she purchased the Miss Universe Organization for $20 million.
The CEO of JKN Global Group PCL, a Thailand-based media distribution company, Anne Jakkaphong Jakrajutatip, is well-known for her work on Thai adaptations of reality series like her popular show “Project Runway.”
She has also spoken out about her experiences as a transgender woman and worked to advance transgender rights in Thailand.
She announced that her company, JKN Global Group, will take over the Miss Universe Organization. In a news release, the company stated that it plans to grow the Miss Universe Organization by expanding in Asia and releasing new products like skin care, cosmetics, lifestyle products, dietary supplements, and drinks.
According to Jakkaphong, the company felt “incredibly honored” to own the organization.
She said, “We seek not only to continue its legacy of providing a platform to passionate individuals from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and traditions, but also to evolve the brand for the next generation.”
The CEO and president of the Miss Universe Organization expressed their excitement to “continue the evolution of the Miss Universe Organization with JKN” in a joint statement.
They said, “Our progressive approach continues to position us at the forefront of our industry.”
According to the JKN news release, Jakkaphong is now the first transgender owner of the Miss Universe Organization as a result of the purchase.
Since its inception in 1952, the Miss Universe beauty pageant has grown to become one of the most popular in the world.