Midori Monet Becomes Miss International Queen USA 2025

MIDORI MONET OF SEATTLE, WASHINGTON, DAZZLED THE NATION WHEN SHE WAS CROWNED MISS INTERNATIONAL QUEEN – USA 2025 AT THE PRESTIGIOUS ARTEMUS W. HAM CONCERT HALL IN LAS VEGAS A FEW MONTHS AGO. THE EVENT, HOSTED BY THE BE THE TRANSFORMATIONAL CHANGE FUND, WAS A BREATHTAKING SHOWCASE OF CREATIVITY, TALENT, AND POISE, HIGHLIGHTING THE BEAUTY AND DIVERSITY OF TRANSGENDER WOMEN FROM ACROSS THE COUNTRY. FOR MONET, THE MOMENT HER NAME WAS ANNOUNCED WAS ONE SHE WILL NEVER FORGET. “WHEN I HEARD MY NAME, IT WAS LIKE A RUSH OF EMOTIONS—SHOCK, GLEE, AND GRATITUDE ALL AT ONCE. IT WAS THE CULMINATION OF YEARS OF HARD WORK AND SELF-BELIEF.”

For Monet, winning the title is more than just personal achievement—it’s a platform for change. “Holding this crown is a reminder that dreams can come true, and it’s my chance to inspire others the way I’ve been inspired by the incredible women who came before me,” she shared. One of those inspirations was Jazell Barbie Royale, the first Black woman to win the Miss International Queen title in Thailand. Monet recalls, “Seeing a woman like me succeed on such a prestigious stage gave me the courage to believe I could do the same. Representation matters, and I’m honored to continue her legacy.”

Her path to the crown was not without challenges. After placing in the top six at Miss Washington USA, she hesitated to compete in pageants again, wanting to rest and reflect. However, her recruiter encouraged her to seize the opportunity, and a generous sponsorship covered her entry fee. Monet took the leap, and it paid off. Reflecting on her journey, she says, “The biggest triumph wasn’t just winning; it was the sisterhood I gained. The bonds I formed with my fellow contestants are something I’ll cherish forever.”

Monet’s performances in the national costume and talent categories were also standout moments. Drawing from her background as a full-time entertainer, she wowed the judges with a lip-sync performance of an original song she wrote and recorded specifically for the competition. “Being on stage is where I feel most at home,” she said. Her national costume paid homage to her roots in the Miss Washington USA pageant, as she wore Samantha Galia’s costume from Miss USA 2023. The design symbolized Washington’s resurgence in pageantry, and Monet carried it with pride.

As a Black trans woman, Monet is deeply aware of the importance of visibility and advocacy. “Every day I step out as myself is seen by some as an act of defiance, but I see it as an act of love. I want others to embrace their uniqueness and know they’re not alone.” She plans to use her platform to advocate for mental health and self-care, emphasizing the need for self-love in a world that can often feel hostile. “Loving yourself is a revolutionary act, especially in a society that doesn’t always take the time to understand us. Self-acceptance is our armor.”

Monet is now preparing for the Miss International Queen world competition in Thailand. Taking a thoughtful approach, she’s focusing on pacing herself and prioritizing her mental well-being. “I believe in taking things one step at a time. I’m not rushing; I’m preparing myself to show up as my best and most authentic self.”

Looking back on her journey, Monet hopes to leave a lasting legacy of authenticity, courage, and positivity. “Life isn’t always sunshine and rainbows, but how you respond and manifest your world makes all the difference. This crown is a testament to the power of knowing who you are and standing firm in that truth. I want others to see that the impossible is never truly impossible.”

Follow Miss International Queen – USA 2025 Midori Monet on IG @ midorimonet.

By Anthony Schaffer