Anne Jakrajutatip has an extraordinary career as a transgender businesswoman, not only in Thailand or Asia but also ranking third globally. As the CEO of JKN Global Group, she has brought her creativity and vision to establish the company as a leading name in the fields of media, advertising, television production, and distribution. Anne Jakrajutatip embodies versatility and fame in the entertainment industry, particularly after her official acquisition of the Miss Universe pageant.
Beyond her professional success, Anne is an inspiring figure on her journey of pursuing passions. By facing challenges and accepting herself, she has become a voice for the LGBTQ+ community, spreading positive messages. Now, as a mother of two, she once again proves that there are no limits to pursuing dreams and making a difference in her life. Join Harper’s Bazaar in exploring Anne’s inspiring journey.
Always ready for an opportunity
In contrast to the initial assumption of Anne’s attire, as the owner of a prestigious global pageant, she chooses to dress in simple and practical outfits rather than luxury designer wear. Her style is dynamic, often accompanied by a scarf, a versatile accessory that not only adds warmth but also serves as a distinctive element in her overall look. “I’m a working woman and mom, so my clothes need to be practical and ready to go all the time,” she explains.
Not many are aware that humble nature of this extraordinary woman stems from being the eldest child in a Thai-Chinese family and previously owning a modest video rental store. Anne candidly shares, “As you know, I was not born with a golden spoon in my mouth! I’ve had to work very hard to build my company and get to where I am today.”
Anne also became a victim of school violence due to being part of the LGBTQ+ community. This issue was so severe that it forced her to leave her hometown and seek education elsewhere. However, Anne, with the determination of a warrior, overcame all obstacles without being constrained by outdated beliefs.
With each experience, Anne became more creative, strategic, and open-minded, embracing every opportunity that came her way. “My upbringing helped me understand that opportunities will arise, and the most important thing is that you are prepared with the skills and knowledge to take them when they come,” she emphasizes.
Anne Jakrajutatip’s journey to Miss Universe ownership
Anne shares her intense passion for beauty from a young age. As a long-time fan of beauty pageant, she once dreamed of participating in such competitions. However, Anne soon realized that her life’s purpose was to help others become inspirational leaders, just as she is doing.
With all these factors and her visionary leadership in the media industry, Anne seized the opportunity and became the first transgender female billionaire to own the rights to Miss Universe. Her overall goal remains to inspire and empower women, celebrating their uniqueness and diversity.
Anne Jakrajutatip wants to begin a new era for Miss Universe
Beauty pageants, especially Miss Universe, have a significant influence in Southeast Asia, where there is a large number of passionate fan. Therefore, the opportunity to own this organization is not only for Anne herself but also a way for her to bring the distinctive features of her homeland, Thailand, to this global platform.
Anne is enthusiastic about using the pageant to showcase the highlights of Thai culture, such as cuisine, films, fashion, or festivals, and make them global trends. She also brings innovative enhancements to the program, aiming to modernize it and make the beauty pageant brand as relevant and empowering as possible for women today.
Miss Universe now allows women who are pregnant, mothers, married, divorced, and even transgender women to participate in the competition. “We want to appeal to the most qualified women around the world. And in today’s society, there’s absolutely no reason why a mom or a wife can’t compete – I mean, look at me!”.
A courageous woman and an exceptional mother
If her leadership role makes Anne a decisive woman, then her role as a mother brings her understanding of women all over the world. From there, an open-minded perspective is brought to the Miss Universe competition, just as she does with her own family. “Becoming a mother was a drastic change in my life. I was not just a woman with a business anymore! It’s so important to me to build a wonderful home for them to grow up in, and to support their dreams and help turn them into realities just as we do at Miss Universe”.
Through her boldness, determination, and the motherly heart, the Thai entrepeneur has changed the way we perceive a beauty pageants. Anne Jakrajutatip reaffirms its important mission and ensures that Miss Universe is not just about physical beauty but also about confidence and positive impact on the community.
Anne Jakrajutatip has transformed Miss Universe competition into a powerful platform for women worldwide to affirm their value and worth.
***Team Credits***
Starring: Anne Jakrajutatip
Photo: Harris Thông
Stylist: Châu Phan
Costume: Tuyết Lê
Producer: Cory Couture & Duyên Nguyễn
Location: Rose Villa – Saigon
Harper’s Bazaar Vietnam
