Hawaiian Trans Woman Lo Colby Crowned as Miss International Queen USA 2026, Set to Represent the U.S. in Thailand

History was made this past weekend as Lo Colby was officially crowned Miss International Queen USA 2026, securing her place as one of the nation’s most celebrated transgender women and earning the opportunity to represent the United States on a global stage later this year.

The Miss International Queen pageant, widely regarded as the largest transgender beauty competition in the world, took place at Harrah’s Resort in Atlantic City. Hawaiian-born and now based in Los Angeles, Colby’s win marks a monumental moment not only for her personal journey, but for representation within the pageant community.

Crowned by reigning titleholder Midori Monet, Colby stood out among a competitive field of contestants with her poise, authenticity, and commanding stage presence. Rounding out the top three were 1st Runner-Up Zhane Dawlingz of Columbus, Ohio, and 2nd Runner-Up Ziena Morales of San Diego, California.

Colby’s victory also carries historic significance. She becomes the seventh Hawaiian contestant to win a U.S. pageant in the Miss category and only the second Hawaiian queen to advance to a Grand Slam competition, following in the footsteps of Brooke Lee, who famously captured the Miss Universe crown in 1997.

Now, with her national title secured, Colby is set to represent the United States at the Miss International Queen global competition in Pattaya, Thailand, later this fall.

Following her win, Colby took to Instagram to share a heartfelt message reflecting on the experience:

“I am on my way home back to LA, and I am full of emotion and gratitude. What an incredibly life-changing week. I wanted to take a minute to thank a few people who have been integral to this journey. The @missinternationalqueenusa team, you all put in so much hard work to make this pageant a success and delivered a world-class experience. From the beginning of the week to after Finals night, you made sure all of the contestants were taken care of with so much love.

To my MIQ USA ‘26 sisters: You have changed my life in more ways than you think. I am forever grateful for you all allowing me to be myself and embracing me. You ladies are incredible women and inspire me so much.

Thank you everyone for your love and support. I promise to represent with love and intention. I will not let you down. I am deeply humbled.”