On the evening of 19/9, Nong Poy participated in the 20th season's anniversary celebration of Miss International Queen, alongside other transgender queens from various eras. Nong Poy was crowned in 2004, becoming the first winner of this pageant.
Nong Poy's catwalk and speech 22 years after being crowned Miss International Queen. *Video: MIQ*
Reflecting on her time on the Miss International Queen stage, Nong Poy recalled initially viewing her participation as a quest for a title. Years later, she understood the crown's true value: an opportunity to transform her life.
According to Poy, when women seize the right moment, they can open doors previously nonexistent and influence an entire generation. She thanked the organizers for creating a platform that empowers transgender women, a pioneering effort when few others dared to do the same.
Concluding her address, Poy advised this year's winner that the lasting value of the title comes from using it wisely, even after their reign ends. "Utilizing the title to create long-term significance can transform you into a legend," she stated.
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Nong Poy's beauty at 40. *Photo: MIQ*
Nong Poy's return to the stage drew significant attention from fans across forums. Beauty platforms widely shared clips of her catwalk and speech, sparking extensive discussion. Public comments praised her unchanging beauty at 40: "Nong Poy's beauty hasn't changed in 22 years," "She's still as beautiful and radiant," "I still can't take my eyes off her smile," and "There's only one Nong Poy."
Nong Poy underwent gender confirmation surgery at 17. A year later, she won the Miss International Queen title. She has appeared in Hong Kong and Thai films and television series, including "The White Storm," "From Vegas to Macau II," "The Mummy Resurrected," and "Nang Khaen." She has also been a brand ambassador for various cosmetic and jewelry companies.
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The beauty with light makeup while strolling in late April. *Photo: Elle*
In 2015, TC Candler, an independent American film, art, and beauty criticism platform, named her the first Thai transgender person on its list of the 100 most beautiful faces in the world. Nong Poy married her businessman husband in 2023; they had known each other for over 20 years and attended the same school.
Kamol Hospital in Thailand recognizes her as one of the country's most beloved transgender actresses. Elle describes Nong Poy as having a "fairy-like" appearance, characterized by a gentle face and a benevolent smile.
Since her marriage in 2023, Nong Poy has limited her showbiz activities, primarily focusing on her family life. Earlier this year, she began returning to the entertainment industry through fashion and beauty events. She has not announced any new film plans or projects.
Held in Thailand since 2004, Miss International Queen is one of the largest beauty pageants for transgender individuals. The 20th season, themed "The Evolving Legacy: Empower Every Voice," featured 27 contestants. Thai-American beauty Lo Colby, 34, won the title, surpassing 26 other participants.
Tan Cao
