Walking with pride, speaking with purpose

IN A world where self-expression is often challenged by societal expectations, 24-year-old Keysi Guidotti of Davao City is choosing to rise — with grace, power, and purpose. Representing her hometown in the prestigious Miss International Queen Philippines pageant, Keysi isn’t just a contender. She’s a voice for inclusion, resilience, and the boundless dreams of LGBTQ+ youth across the nation.

The Miss International Queen Philippines pageant is a national platform that celebrates the beauty, intelligence, and talent of Filipina transwomen. It serves as the gateway to the global stage — the Miss International Queen pageant in Thailand, the world’s most recognized competition for transgender women. Keysi GuidottiMore than a pageant, it’s a movement: one that uplifts visibility and empowers transgender Filipinas to champion social change and gender equality.



Over the years, many trailblazing Filipina transwomen have left their mark through this platform. Kevin Balot, crowned Miss International Queen 2012, became a global icon of beauty and advocacy. Trixie Maristela, the 2015 winner, used her voice to promote education and LGBTQ+ rights, even penning a memoir.

Jessa Belle Pacis is a beloved figure in the local pageant scene and an outspoken advocate for acceptance. Michelle Montecarlo, who competed in 2022, championed mental health and inclusivity. Fuschia Anne Ravena, the 2022 Miss International Queen, continued the legacy with a message of love and self-acceptance.

These women didn’t just win crowns — they opened doors and shaped national conversations on identity, equality, and representation. Now, Keysi walks that same path with pride.“Growing up as a transwoman, dili jud siya sayon (it really wasn't easy),” Keysi shares candidly reflecting on her journey.

From enduring judgment to facing discrimination, her path has not been easy. But each challenge has only deepened her resolve. “I’ve been judged, but I’ve also grown stronger.

Joining this pageant is my way of showing young LGBTQ+ individuals that we belong, we matter, and we can shine just as brightly.”Her identity, she says, has been her compass — grounding her confidence and courage to live authentically. “Being a transwoman isn’t just part of me — it is me.

Embracing that has empowered me to express myself fully and inspire others to do the same.” Keysi GuidottiGrowing up as a transwoman, dili jud siya sayon. I’ve been judged, but I’ve also grown stronger.

Joining this pageant is my way of showing young LGBTQ+ individuals that we belong, we matter, and we can shine just as brightly.Keysi draws inspiration from Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach, who won the crown after three attempts. “Her story reminds me — and many others — that our dreams are valid.

If you work hard, stay motivated, and never give up, you’ll get there.”But her journey hasn’t been without doubt and bias — especially from those who underestimated her. “Instead of letting their opinions bring me down, I used them as fuel.

Every step I take brings me closer to that dream.”Beyond the glamour, it’s the personal growth that excites her most. “Each training session doesn’t just prepare me for competition — it shapes me into a woman with purpose.

”For Keysi, pageantry is not just about crowns and gowns — it’s about having a platform to make a difference. At the heart of her mission is her advocacy: creating gender bias-free schools.“I left school because of gender-related discrimination.

They wanted to cut my hair, force me to dress like a male — but that’s not who I am,” she recounts. “That experience stayed with me. And I realized how many LGBTQ+ learners are forced to hide who they are.

But how can we unlock their full potential if school policies are oppressive?” Keysi GuidottiContributed photoHer advocacy, first introduced during Reyna Dabawenya 2023, is something she’s now bringing to the national stage.Keysi’s advocacy aims to reshape the narrative. “Imagine the possibilities if every student felt seen, safe, and celebrated.

I want to help create educational spaces where identity is respected — where no one has to choose between their education and their truth.”Quoting fellow advocate Stacey Biano, she says, “Beauty fades, but education is something that cannot be taken away from you. That’s what I want the world to remember.

”Keysi draws strength from the unwavering support of her loved ones. She considers herself fortunate to have family, friends, and a community that stands firmly behind her, giving her the confidence to keep moving forward. She also looks up to LGBTQ+ pioneers and beauty queens who exemplify the power of visibility and representation.

While she doesn’t mention anyone specifically, her journey is quickly becoming an inspiration to others. Keysi GuidottiYour dreams are valid. Believe in the possibilities.

If you dream it, you can do it. Don’t let anyone stop you. Walk with pride — because that is your power.

Keysi GuidottiIf crowned Miss International Queen Philippines, she plans to take her advocacy further — to schools, institutions, and policymakers. “This isn’t just about me. It’s about creating change that will last far beyond my reign.

”To those who dream of following in her footsteps, her advice is clear:“Your dreams are valid. Believe in the possibilities. If you dream it, you can do it.

Don’t let anyone stop you. Walk with pride — because that is your power.”In a society gradually awakening to the beauty of diversity, Keysi Guidotti stands as a radiant example of what it means to lead with heart, courage, and pride.

Her journey is more than a bid for a crown — it’s a call for change. Jhayrene Hermoso, DOrSU Intern.