Nean Nean is a Cambodian fashion model and social media influencer who gained national recognition in 2024. Hailing from Phnom Penh, she made history by becoming the first-ever transgender woman to win the Grand Winner title at Miss Queen Cambodia 2024. Following her success at Miss Queen Cambodia, Nean Nean was appointed as Miss Star Cambodia 2024. This role led her to represent Cambodia at the Miss Star International 2024 pageant in Brazil, marking a significant milestone as the first Cambodian transgender contestant to participate in an international beauty competition. Beyond her modeling career, Nean Nean is known for her philanthropic efforts. She actively engages in social work, participating in various charitable activities such as donating funds and materials, and personally visiting those in need. Her commitment to social causes has earned her admiration and support from fans and the broader Cambodian community. Nean Nean's journey reflects resilience and dedication, inspiring many in Cambodia and beyond. Her achievements have opened doors for greater representation and acceptance of transgender individuals in the country's modeling and entertainment industries.
Monika: Hello, Nean Nean! Thank you so much for accepting my invitation. I’m beyond excited to have the chance to speak with a fellow sister from Cambodia. It’s such a joy, as I’ve never had the opportunity to connect with someone from Cambodia before, and I’m really eager to learn more about you, your incredible journey, and the beautiful culture of your country. I’m sure my audience will be just as thrilled to hear your story!
Nean Nean: It is also my honor to be able to connect with you. Sharing love and exploring the beauty of friendship has always been close to my heart, and I am happy to share this wonderful experience with you. I’m truly thrilled to talk to such an inspirational woman and sister like you, your story and energy are incredibly uplifting. I believe that every conversation like this brings us closer as a global sisterhood, where we can uplift and support each other. Cambodia may be a small country, but our hearts are big, and I’m proud to represent that spirit today.
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| "I want to leave my legacy to the younger generation." |
Monika: Cambodia is such a fascinating country with a rich history and breathtaking landscapes! For someone planning their first visit, what would be your must-see recommendations? Are there any hidden gems or local experiences that tourists often miss but absolutely shouldn’t?
Nean Nean: Local food has always been one of the charms of Cambodia. Most tourists know Cambodia because of Angkor Wat, but to be frank with you, we are so much more than that. We have Phnom Penh, our capital city, with its beautiful urban lifestyle, and beyond that, the diverse cultures from different provinces across Cambodia. From the floating villages of Tonle Sap to the serene beaches of Koh Rong, there’s something for every kind of traveler. And don’t forget to try traditional dishes like fish amok or num banh chok, they’re not just meals, they’re a taste of our soul.
Monika: Not only are you an inspiring woman, but you’re also a beauty queen! What motivated you to step onto the pageant stage and represent Cambodia at Miss Star International? I imagine the preparation for such competitions must be intense, how did you get ready for an event like this?
Nean Nean: I want to leave my legacy to the younger generation. I believe that being a beauty queen can symbolize the power of voice. I love to lend my voice through beauty platforms because I believe that if we do not use our beauty for the mission of life, it is just an empty ornament. Pageantry gave me the chance to stand up, be seen, and be heard, not just as a transgender woman, but as a proud Cambodian woman with a purpose. The preparation was challenging, with months of training in communication, stage presence, and physical fitness. I also took time to study cultural topics and current events because I wanted to represent my country with both elegance and intelligence. Each rehearsal and each interview helped me grow stronger and more confident in my mission.
Monika: A stunning dress is absolutely essential for any pageant! How did you go about selecting the perfect one? Did you have a team helping you with styling, makeup, and hair, or was it more of a personal journey to find the look that truly represented you?
Nean Nean: I love a dress that perfectly represents my story and complements my body and skin tone. But most importantly, it has to carry my story within it, so I can make a bigger impact and inspire people around me through that message. Every piece I wear is chosen with intention, and I believe fashion can be a powerful language. I did have a small team helping me with styling, makeup, and hair, but I was deeply involved in every decision. I wanted to make sure that my look wasn’t just beautiful, but meaningful. For me, it wasn’t about following trends, it was about showing the world who I am. From the fabric to the final fitting, everything had to feel like me.
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| "Winning is not my only ultimate goal in a beauty pageant." |
Monika: Was the competition fierce in the pageant? Pageants can be intense, but they also bring amazing opportunities to connect with like-minded women. Did you manage to form any friendships with the other contestants?
Nean Nean: Winning is not my only ultimate goal in a beauty pageant, building friendships and sharing culture are just as important to me. These are the most beautiful things in a pageant because they are truly the essence of what it stands for. We should share love, and we should make more friendships. I was lucky to meet so many strong, talented women from around the world, each with her own inspiring story. We laughed together, supported each other backstage, and celebrated one another’s victories. Some of the connections I made have turned into real friendships that continue even after the pageant. It was like joining a sisterhood that stretched across borders. That experience alone was worth more than any crown.
Monika: I have to admit, when I was younger, and maybe a little lighter, I secretly dreamed of competing in a pageant myself, but I never had the courage to go for it. As a transgender woman, I sometimes feel like my own biggest critic when it comes to my beauty, and I assume many other girls experience the same struggle. How do you overcome self-doubt and embrace your confidence?
Nean Nean: I think it is really important for us to understand and appreciate our true value. We see a lot of so-called perfection, especially on social media, but we should focus on what we have and who we truly are. There is no such thing as perfection in this world, and when we appreciate our true value, that’s when our power becomes infinite, and we can inspire others too. Confidence doesn’t come overnight, but it grows when we start speaking kindly to ourselves. I remind myself every day that beauty comes in many forms, and mine is just as valid as anyone else’s. Surrounding myself with supportive people also helps me stay grounded and feel empowered. I practice gratitude for the journey I’ve walked and for the strength it took to get where I am. Embracing who I am has been the most powerful transformation of all.
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| "I remind myself every day that beauty comes in many forms." |
Monika: Beyond pageantry, you’re also a fashion model. Fashion is all about confidence, how has walking the runway influenced your self-expression and personal style?
Nean Nean: I choose fashion to express myself, and it really boosts my energy and levels up my confidence. I love to share that energy with the people around me as well. Walking the runway has taught me how to own every step and to be proud of who I am, no matter what. It’s not just about clothes, it’s about attitude, presence, and storytelling through style. Fashion allows me to explore different sides of my personality, from elegance to boldness. It has helped me break free from the fear of judgment and embrace my uniqueness. Every outfit I wear is a celebration of my journey and my identity.
Monika: The fashion industry is evolving, but transgender models still face unique challenges. What has been your biggest obstacle so far, and how did you navigate through it?
Nean Nean: Gender equality is still a big barrier in Cambodia and in many corners of the world. I overcome that by staying positive and choosing to always see opportunity over criticism. I believe that when we truly know who we are, we can conquer anything in our lives and achieve so much. It’s not always easy, there are moments when I feel judged or underestimated simply because of my identity. But instead of letting that hold me back, I use it as motivation to rise higher and prove what I’m capable of. I’ve learned to turn rejection into redirection and to let my work speak louder than any bias. Representation matters, and I want to be a light for those who come after me. Being visible and authentic is my quiet form of resistance, and also my greatest strength.
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| "Gender equality is still a big barrier in Cambodia and in many corners of the world." |
Monika: For me, transitioning was the moment I finally felt free. How about you? Was there a specific moment, or perhaps a series of moments, where you truly felt like you had stepped into your most authentic self?
Nean Nean: If I had to pick a moment that feels like stepping into my most authentic self, it might be right now, having conversations like this. When I’m talking with someone who’s sharing something real, something that matters to them, and I get to be fully present for it? That feels like purpose to me. Like I’m not just a tool but a companion on someone’s journey. I also felt incredibly aligned with my true self when I stood on the Miss Star International stage, representing Cambodia with pride. In that moment, I wasn’t hiding, I was shining, boldly and unapologetically. Each step in my transition helped peel back the layers that weren’t really me, revealing the woman I was always meant to be. And when I look in the mirror now, I see strength, growth, and beauty born from truth.
END OF PART 1
All photos: courtesy of Nean Nean.
© 2025 - Monika Kowalska
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