Twenty-eight girls compete for the title, yet many even in the trans community see little significance or purpose for these type of pageants. In fact, many would say it’s a burden to our community. Many trans pageants sadly, especially in America, are considered a hindrance to trans equality. While many are ran through gay bars for the wealth of gay owners, pageants like Miss International Queen do far more than place a crown and a couple of hundred bucks in the hands of trans women, they uplift transgender visibility, educate and push the acceptance of transgender women beyond the limits of the streets of Thailand and give them an opportunity. After collecting tens of thousands of dollars, many finally are able to complete transition and most become celebrities in their countries, going into acting roles, advocacy work, politics or singing careers. Most importantly, each time a bigot sees an entire nation celebrate the beauty, diversity, and strength of trans women, we all no matter what part of the world, are better for it.