Geena Rocero

Geena Rocero (born February 28, 1983) is a Filipino-American model, actress, and LGBTQ+ rights activist. Born in the Philippines, Rocero moved to the United States to pursue a modeling career and became a successful fashion model, working with major brands and appearing in magazines worldwide. In 2012, she made international headlines when she became the first openly transgender woman to compete in the Miss Universe pageant, using her platform to advocate for transgender visibility and rights. Her decision to publicly come out and compete marked a watershed moment for transgender representation in pageantry. Rocero has since expanded her activism beyond modeling, appearing in television shows and films, and founding The Geena Rocero Foundation to support LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly transgender women of color. She has delivered talks at international forums, collaborated with major organizations on diversity initiatives, and used social media to educate millions about transgender issues. Rocero's work has contributed significantly to shifting conversations around gender identity, acceptance, and representation in entertainment and beyond. Her legacy demonstrates the power of visibility and courage in advancing social progress.