By Jake Naylor / Photography courtesy of Project Publicity

When Lo Colby’s name was announced at the finale of Miss International Queen – USA 2026, time seemed to stand still. The dazzling stage at Harrah’s Resort in Atlantic City faded into the background as a wave of emotion took over: shock, disbelief, joy, and something even deeper: validation.

“It was a once-in-a-lifetime feeling I had never experienced before,” Colby recalls. “I felt everything all at once.”

But for Colby, the crown represents far more than a singular moment of triumph. It is the culmination of a lifelong journey shaped by culture, community, resilience, and an unwavering belief in her own worth, and it marks the beginning of a new chapter defined by advocacy, visibility, and purpose.

Rooted in Aloha: A Childhood Shaped by Acceptance

Long before the spotlight of the pageant stage, Colby’s story began in Hawaii, a place where she says transgender women are not only visible but deeply respected as part of the cultural fabric.

“Growing up in Hawaii, transgender women are visible, respected, and an integral part of the culture,” she shares.

One of her earliest memories, meeting a trans woman as a child, left an impression she wouldn’t fully understand until years later. “I didn’t yet have the word ‘transgender,’ but I knew she was different, and somehow that difference felt very familiar.”

While she often found herself the target of bullying as a queer child, Colby was also surrounded by something powerful: unwavering support. She gravitated toward female friendships, where she felt seen, understood, and protected. That sense of belonging became foundational.

“Becoming the woman I am today wasn’t the result of a single moment,” she explains. “It was growing up in an environment filled with acceptance from my family, my friends, and my community. That gave me the courage to live authentically.”

From Dream to Destiny: Finding Her Place in Pageantry

Colby’s love of pageantry began in childhood, inspired by iconic systems and trailblazers like Mimi Marks. But for years, it remained just that: a dream admired from afar.

“I didn’t realize competing could actually be a possibility for me,” she says.

That changed when pageant leaders saw something in her before she fully saw it in herself. Being approached by organizers ignited a spark, one that would eventually grow into a calling.

“At first, I didn’t feel ready,” she admits. “But when applications opened for 2026, I knew it was my moment.”

From there, preparation became all-consuming. Colby approached the competition with the discipline of an elite athlete, dedicating herself to runway training, interview coaching, and the fine-tuned art of stage presence. But the most transformative work happened internally.

“I had to build the confidence to truly believe that I could win,” she says. “I broke down walls, allowed myself to be vulnerable, and let my personality shine.”

Strength, Sisterhood, and the Power of Presence

Competition week tested Colby in both physical and emotional ways. The most demanding moment came during the National Costume segment: a breathtaking but grueling presentation involving a 15-pound headpiece and a heavily beaded gown.

“It was beautiful, but definitely a recipe for disaster if I wasn’t careful,” she laughs. “It required focus, control, and trusting my preparation.”

Yet beyond the challenges, what stood out most was the bond formed among contestants, including First Runner-Up Zhane’ Dawlingz.
“We became instant friends,” Colby says. “Sharing that final moment with her made it even more meaningful.”

For Colby, pageantry is often misunderstood as purely aesthetic. In reality, she sees it as something far more impactful.

“The women I competed with are intelligent, accomplished, and actively doing meaningful work,” she explains. “Pageantry creates a platform where the world can see that trans women are leaders, advocates, and role models.”

Her crowning moment, receiving the title from outgoing queen Midori Monet, symbolized not just personal victory, but continuity in a growing movement for transgender visibility and empowerment.

Beyond the Crown: Breaking Barriers in the Professional World

Outside the pageant world, Colby is a technology professional and a rising force in beauty and fashion, balancing corporate excellence with creative expression.

Navigating professional spaces as a transgender woman, however, comes with its own set of challenges.

“When I walk into a room, I’m aware that people may carry unconscious biases,” she says. “But what I’ve learned is that excellence speaks for itself.”

Her message is clear: she is not present because she is different, she is present because she is exceptional.

That perspective fuels her advocacy platform, which focuses on economic empowerment for transgender women. From wage inequality to limited career access, Colby is determined to address systemic barriers head-on.

“Visibility is important,” she says. “But opportunity is what truly changes lives.”

She plans to partner with LGBTQ+ organizations to expand access to mentorship, job training, and professional development, creating tangible pathways to success for others in the community.

A Global Stage, A Personal Mission

Next, Colby will represent the United States at Miss International Queen 2026 in Thailand; a moment that carries both global significance and deeply personal meaning.

As a half-Thai woman, the opportunity to compete on that stage is more than symbolic; it is a homecoming of identity.
“My mom has already started speaking Thai with me more often so I can reconnect with the language,” she shares. “Being able to embrace my Thai heritage on the international stage will be incredibly meaningful.”

But Colby is also keenly aware of the broader responsibility she carries.

“I’m not only competing for myself, but for the transgender community across the country,” she says. “This title represents the pursuit of global equality.”

Her goal is not just to compete, but to bring the crown home, representing the United States with pride, compassion, and excellence.

Redefining Legacy: More Than a Title

For Colby, success isn’t measured solely in titles or accolades; it’s defined by impact.

“I hope my legacy shows that transgender women belong in every space,” she says. “On stage, in boardrooms, and in leadership roles within our communities.”

Her vision is rooted in empowerment that extends beyond visibility into real, lasting change.

“If my reign helps even a few trans women believe their dreams are possible,” she reflects, “and gives them the tools to achieve them, then I will consider it a success.”

In a world still grappling with understanding and inclusion, Lo Colby stands as both a symbol and a force; proof that authenticity, resilience, and excellence can not only break barriers but redefine them entirely.

And as she prepares to take the global stage, she carries with her more than just a crown.

She carries a community. A culture. And a mission.

This article was originally published in the 2026 PRIDE Month & Community Issue of Las Vegas PRIDE Magazine, and can be read in its original format here.