The first transgender woman to compete in the global Miss Universe pageant says that, whether she wins the beauty title or not, she wants to make history as a role model for trans children around the globe, writes AP. 

"I think that this is something that is going to create - regardless of the final - the end of an era and the start of something new, not only in the history of Miss Universe and beauty contests but in many countries' views of transgender women," said Angela Ponce, the 26-year old model and activist representing Spain. "There are many other countries where the law does not protect them so I think it is important that I say 'Here I am' and that I form a part of the diversity of what it means to be a woman and that I have the same rights as all."

Ponce beat 20 other contestants in the Miss Universe Spain gala on June 29, qualifying for the global round of the contest that has only allowed transgender women to participate since 2012.

The location and dates for this year's contest are yet to be announced.