Las Vegas is preparing to host one of the most empowering and glamorous events of the year: the Miss International Queen – USA (MIQ-USA) competition. Set to take place from December 8th to December 12th, 2024, this five-day event celebrates the resilience, talent, and beauty of transgender women from across the United States. Organized by the non-profit Be The Transformational Change Fund, MIQ-USA offers a platform for contestants to amplify their voices and showcase their individuality. With 26 extraordinary contestants vying for the crown, the competition promises to be an inspiring testament to diversity, inclusion, and determination.

This year’s pageant is more than just a contest—it's a movement. It highlights the strides the transgender community has made while addressing the challenges still faced by many. Contestants will participate in various events, from the National Costume and Talent Show to workshops and galas, culminating in the grand finale where the reigning queen, Kataluna Enriquez, will crown her successor.

Among the contestants, five extraordinary women have captured the spotlight with their inspiring journeys, advocacy, and dedication to making a difference. Let’s meet them.

Olivia Laurn: A Beacon of Resilience and Inspiration

Representing Orlando, Florida, Olivia Laurn brings a heartfelt story of perseverance and hope. Born in Havana, Cuba, Olivia migrated to the U.S. in 2003 and has since embraced every opportunity to inspire others. Her fascination with pageants began as a young girl, watching queens overcome hardships to embody "beauty with a purpose."

For Olivia, the MIQ-USA stage is a platform to influence and uplift. Her favorite part of the pageant is finding ways to inspire "the little me" in others—helping them feel seen, confident, and motivated to embrace their true selves. Olivia describes herself as resilient, intelligent, and beautiful inside and out, qualities that resonate in her advocacy for safe transitioning practices. A liaison for surgeons in Colombia, Olivia ensures that transgender individuals have access to informed, safe healthcare options.

As a nod to her Cuban heritage and immigrant journey, Olivia promises a talent portion that will resonate with audiences nationwide. With her classic beauty icons—Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn—guiding her timeless style, Olivia hopes to channel grace, poise, and purpose to leave a lasting impact on both the judges and the audience.

Anne Santiago: From Adversity to Advocacy

Born in Los Angeles but raised in the Philippines, Anne Santiago represents New York City. Her journey has been one of overcoming adversity with determination and grit. Separated from her parents as a child, Anne returned to the Philippines, where she completed her education and earned a bachelor’s degree in medical laboratory science. Her success in a field where trans women are often underestimated is a testament to her resilience and ambition.

For Anne, the MIQ-USA stage is about representation and empowerment. She aims to inspire others to see that transgender women belong in every professional space. Describing herself as bubbly, outgoing, and fun, Anne draws fashion inspiration from Heart Evangelista, a Filipina fashion icon known for her impeccable style.

Balancing her career in healthcare with her passion for social media content creation, Anne’s ultimate goal is to expand her influence and inspire the next generation of transgender individuals to break barriers. Her warm, approachable demeanor and drive to create a better future make her a standout in this year’s competition.

Gia: A Voice for Healthcare Equality

Chicago-based showgirl Gia is stepping onto the MIQ-USA stage with a mission to advocate for healthcare access for all transgender individuals. Originally from Florida, Gia faced the reality of losing healthcare coverage in her home state, prompting her move to Chicago in search of better opportunities. Her experience has fueled her desire to ensure that no trans person has to relocate to access essential care.

Describing herself as sensitive, ambitious, and kind, Gia credits her role models—Mimi Marks, Melony Munro, and Shantell DeMarco—with inspiring her to use her platform for more than just entertainment. A dancer by trade, Gia is venturing into advocacy to make a tangible difference in the lives of others.

Gia’s humility and humor shine through in her acknowledgment of the challenges of standing out among 26 "pretty girls." Despite the pressure, she remains committed to celebrating individuality and building connections. With her focus on healthcare reform, Gia is determined to amplify her voice and spark meaningful change.

Vanessa Nagru: Championing Mental Health Awareness

Representing Dallas, Texas, Vanessa Nagru is a health advocate whose passion lies in promoting mental health awareness. Her journey to MIQ-USA is inspired by her mother, a single immigrant who instilled in Vanessa the values of perseverance and hard work. Fluent in English, Shona, and Zulu, Vanessa’s multicultural background adds a unique perspective to the competition.

Vanessa’s platform centers on the importance of mental health, particularly within the transgender community. She highlights the need for love, support, and spaces for open dialogue, especially during challenging political times. Her style icons—Rihanna and Zendaya—reflect her bold yet effortless approach to fashion and beauty.

Describing herself as confident, unique, and kind, Vanessa hopes to inspire others to embrace their authenticity and pursue their dreams. Her excitement to connect with fellow contestants and share stories underscores her belief in the power of community and representation.

Franz Charmaine Montecarlo: From Philanthropist to Pageant Queen

Las Vegas’s own Franz Charmaine Montecarlo is no stranger to pageantry, having competed since the age of 16. As the founder of the Heart Project, Franz has dedicated her life to community service, organizing medical missions, providing school supplies to children in the Philippines, and volunteering for Homeless Nevada.

Franz’s journey is deeply rooted in her cultural background and commitment to helping others. She sees MIQ-USA as an opportunity to amplify her advocacy for underprivileged children and families. Her optimistic, hardworking, and innovative spirit shines through in her approach to the competition.

Franz’s fun-loving side is evident in her love for food and her plans to introduce contestants to Las Vegas’s vibrant dining scene. Inspired by Audrey Hepburn’s timeless elegance, Franz embodies classic beauty and grace while using her platform to champion equality and human rights.

What to Expect at Miss International Queen – USA 2024

The five-day extravaganza is packed with events that celebrate the contestants’ talent, creativity, and advocacy:

- December 8: The pageant kicks off with a press conference and the Sashing Ceremony, where contestants are introduced to the public.

- December 9: Contestants participate in a holiday-themed community service project and walk the red carpet at the MIQ-USA Gala Event.

- December 10: The National Costume and Talent Show showcases creativity and skill, with contestants presenting costumes that represent their home states and performing unique talents.

- December 11: Workshops focus on advocacy, leadership, and personal growth, followed by Preliminary Night, where contestants compete in swimsuit and evening gown rounds.

- December 12: The grand finale features live performances, a question-and-answer session, and the crowning of the 2024 Miss International Queen – USA.

Beyond the Competition

MIQ-USA is more than a pageant; it’s a celebration of the transgender community’s beauty, strength, and resilience. By providing a platform for contestants to share their stories and advocate for important causes, MIQ-USA fosters a sense of unity and empowerment. The event also serves as a reminder of the progress made and the work still needed to achieve true equality.

As the competition approaches, the spotlight shines brightly on the 26 contestants, each bringing her unique story and perspective to the stage. With their passion, determination, and grace, these women are redefining beauty and breaking barriers—one step at a time.

The anticipation for Miss International Queen – USA 2024 is palpable, and the city of Las Vegas is ready to roll out the red carpet. As the contestants prepare to dazzle audiences and judges alike, one thing is certain: this year’s competition will be a celebration of authenticity, resilience, and empowerment. Who will take home the crown? Stay tuned for an unforgettable journey!