Chennai based transgender model Malaika(28) will represent India in the Miss International Queen 2011, a beauty contest for members of the community to be held in Thailand next month. As the news broke out of her selection she said she felt like a phoenix rising from the ashes. The happy tiding is symbolic of a much larger issue - that the entire community of sexual minorities (Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender - LGBT) has finally arrived.

Mallika said at a press meet on Thursday, It was a breathtaking moment for me. I was so happy and proud. This selection goes on to prove that I am here only because of my merit. She added, I hope this opportunity to represent India will help break down the negative image that most people have about the transgenders. I hope this sends a message that transgenders are capable, smart, beautiful and achievers. Given an opportunity, we will excel in life.

Malaika, who has done a catering and hotel management course shot to limelight when she won the Miss Sahodaran 2007 title. She is the first transgender from India to participate and represent the country in the beauty contest. The only worry up on the other wise jubiliant Mallika was she needs sponsors. There are five rounds with different styles of clothes. She admitted I need to buy accessories for everything. I really hope some corporates will come forward to support.

The annual competition has been held every year since 2004 by Tiffany's Show Pattaya Co. Ltd. in partnership with the Tourism Authority of Thailand. Striving to advance and support today’s transgender/transsexual, Miss International Queen Pageant offers great opportunities for transgender/transsexual from all over the world to present their individual beauty and intelligence in a friendly atmosphere. The event aims to foster understanding of transgender communities worldwide. The pageant is limited to the first 25 qualified entries. Applications are accepted and considered from persons between 18-36 years old.