By Las Vegas PRIDE Magazine Staff
Photography by Daniel Travis, LV Elite Media

In a breathtaking finale on December 12, 2024, Tiana “Midori” Monet of Seattle, Washington, was crowned Miss International Queen – USA 2025. The glittering event, hosted at the iconic Artemus W. Ham Concert Hall, was a dazzling celebration of beauty, resilience, and talent, spotlighting the exceptional contributions of transgender women across the United States.

Midori Monet captivated both judges and the audience with her grace, creativity, and heartfelt story, ultimately taking home the prestigious title. Olivia Lauren of Orlando, Florida, earned the title of 1st Runner-Up, while Khloe Rios-Wyatt of Santa Ana, California, was named 2nd Runner-Up. The three-day event, organized by Be the Transformational Change Fund, showcased a rich tapestry of talent and poise, with highlights including the National Costume and Talent Show, Preliminary Night, and the Crowning Ceremony.

Photo of Olivia Lauren (L), Midori Monet (C), and Khloe Rios-Wyatt (R) by Daniel Travis, LV Elite Media

The grand finale was elevated by electrifying performances from Jazell Barbie Royale and Mimi Marks, as well as appearances by LGBTQIA+ advocates and entertainers such as Alexandra Billings and outgoing Miss International Queen – USA, Kataluna Enriquez. Enriquez, a trailblazer in her own right, passed the crown to Midori Monet in an emotional moment that symbolized progress and empowerment for the transgender community.

Reflecting on her victory, Midori Monet expressed profound gratitude: “When they announced my name, I was overwhelmed with shock, glee, and immense gratitude. It’s a dream come true to see my hard work pay off.” She highlighted the sense of sisterhood among the contestants as a standout aspect of the competition, describing it as a uniquely affirming bond. “The women of Miss International Queen understand my experiences as a transgender woman in a way that few others can,” she shared.

Midori Monet plans to use her platform to advocate for mental health awareness, with a specific focus on self-care and self-love. “As a Black woman of trans experience, I am committed to spreading awareness about the importance of mental health,” she affirmed. Additionally, she is preparing to represent the United States on the global stage at Miss International Queen 2025 in Thailand, where she plans to showcase her creativity by designing many of her competition looks.

The pageant’s producer, Melony Munro, emphasized the significance of the competition, praising the contestants for their dedication to community service. She fondly recalled a moment when the women came together to wrap gifts for unhoused teens in Las Vegas, showcasing their compassion and commitment to making a difference.

Producer Shantell D’Marco commended Miss Monet for her inner confidence and the courage to share her inspiring story with the judges. Meanwhile, producer Mimi Marks applauded the achievements of the finalists, noting Olivia Lauren’s eloquence and ambassadorial spirit and Khloe Rios-Wyatt’s professionalism and nonprofit work.

Category winners further highlighted the night’s talent and camaraderie. Mallery Jenna Robinson was named “Miss Congeniality,” Olivia Lauren won “Best Gown,” and Midori Monet swept the competition with awards for “Best Evening Gown,” “Best Talent,” and “Best National Costume.”

As she prepares for the global competition, Midori Monet will engage in coaching, strategizing with the Miss International Queen team, and participating in community events to create a meaningful impact. Follow her journey on Facebook and Instagram @MissInternationalQueenUSA.

Miss International Queen – USA 2025 stands as a testament to the beauty, resilience, and boundless potential of transgender women, with Midori Monet’s reign promising to inspire and uplift communities far and wide.

This article was originally published in the 2025 Winter Issue of Las Vegas PRIDE Magazine, and can be read in its original format here.