After the final on the evening of 30/5, Huong Giang said she only slept a few hours, still feeling the complete happiness of her achievement. She believes the 2nd runner-up position is a perfect fit for her, as she is the first transgender person to achieve such a high honor in an international beauty pageant.

Huong Giang was called as 2nd runner-up at the Miss Grand All Stars final on the evening of 30/5, in Thailand. *Video: MGI*

Huong Giang competed in the 74th Miss Universe at the end of 2025 but did not win any title. When the Miss Grand organizers announced Huong Giang's participation earlier this year, many people thought she was overestimating herself.

According to Huong Giang, she felt pressure when deciding to join the competition, asking: "What if I compete and still don't achieve a result?". However, she realized that not daring to move forward would be the real failure. "I understand that the biggest reason for my return was not about the title or the crown, but the desire to convey a message of belief. Don't let anyone define or limit your life", she shared.

Huong Giang performed in an evening gown at the final. *Video: MGI*

Reflecting on the past 15 days, Huong Giang said the audience's love was what touched her heart most. Participating in two major beauty pageants within six months sometimes felt beyond her imagination. To help her reach the top 3, friends and close companions spent a considerable amount of money on votes. "I am grateful and thankful. I don't know when I can fully repay this affection", she said.

During her days in Thailand with a packed schedule, Huong Giang sometimes felt tired. Each evening in her room, she had to elevate her legs to alleviate pain from varicose veins. When she took the opportunity to livestream and chat with fans, she felt re-energized. Huong Giang was often moved when Vietnamese tourists in Bangkok sought her out at the hotel to encourage her. Before the final, her boyfriend and many Vietnamese celebrities flew to Thailand to watch live or recorded videos to support her.

Huong Giang taking photos with fans in the hotel lobby.

Huong Giang will accompany the organizers in some post-competition activities before returning home and resuming her work. According to the beauty queen, Miss Grand All Stars is the last beauty pageant she will compete in. Moving forward, Huong Giang wants to focus on training and producing reality shows to support younger talents in their development.

The beauty queen, full name Nguyen Huong Giang, 34 years old, from Hanoi, was a top 4 contestant in Vietnam Idol 2012. In 2018, she was crowned Miss International Queen in Thailand. Over 14 years in the entertainment industry, Huong Giang has worked in various roles: singer, model, and television producer.

The All Stars version is part of the Miss Grand International system, announced by Miss Grand International President, Nawat, at the end of 2025. The competition is separate from the original version, allowing contestants to register independently, without needing to go through the national MGI copyright holder. Beauties who have previously participated in international beauty pageants are eligible to compete, including transgender individuals, married women, and those who have given birth.

The season gathered 56 contestants, participating in various activities from 16/5 to 30/5. Beyond attracting media attention, the competition also faced a fair share of controversies.

Tan Cao

*Photos: Character's team provided*