The Miss Netherlands pageant is set to end after 35 years.
On Thursday, AFP reported that the Miss Netherlands organizing committee announced, “Times have changed, and we are changing together.”
Rather than continuing to host the competition, the committee plans to establish a platform to share stories of women who face challenges due to social media or unrealistic beauty standards, as well as the stories of successful women.
The committee stated, “No more crowns, but stories that inspire. No more dresses, but dreams that come to life.”
Monica van Ee, the organizing committee chair, discussed the new platform’s aims in a blog post. She explained that the competition’s enduring goal is to create opportunities for young women and demonstrate their achievements. “Maybe a sash and a crown are no longer relevant. But women supporting and helping each other is timeless,” she added.
Last year, the Miss Netherlands competition garnered attention when Rikkie Kollé, a transgender woman, claimed victory. At the time, Kollé hoped her victory would inspire young transgender individuals.
Wearing a red dress during the competition, Kollé reflected on her journey, saying, “When I was little Rik and came out as transgender, it wasn’t easy for everyone. I, too, went through it. Today I am stronger than ever before.”
She further expressed her desire to support all “Rikkies” who are rejected by their families so that they can grow into the individuals they aspire to be.
