Rikkie Valerie Kollé made history over the weekend after she was crowned Miss Netherlands 2023, People reported. 

The 22-year-old is the first transgender woman to be crowned in Dutch history.

“I want to be a voice and role model for all young women and queer people,”

Kollé said in a statement shared with USA TODAY.

“I know better than anyone else what it’s like to feel alone and not be surrounded by only positive thoughts.”

Kollé says she wishes to inspire both women and members of the LGBTQ community.

“Yes I’m trans and I want to share my story but I’m also Rikkie and that’s what matters to me. I did this on my own strength and enjoyed every moment”

she continued in Dutch, according to NPR.

“And wherever you are in the world, I want to be there for you and be the example that I missed as a little me.”

Kollé will compete in this year’s Miss Universe as the second openly trans woman with Anne Jakapong Jakrajutatip, a Thai businesswoman, being the first. 

#Clique, what are your thoughts?