AN Andalucian model has become the first ever transgender woman to be crowned Spain’s Miss Universe.
Angela Ponce, 26, has taken the reins from Sofia del Prado and will represent her country at the Miss Universe finals later this year.
Former Miss Cadiz Ponce, who lives in Sevilla, stunned judges at 1.77m tall with light brown hair and blue eyes.
“I’m very happy with the significance of this win,” she the model, who had a sex change operation in 2014.
“I want to be a lesson to the world for tolerance and respect towards ourselves and others.
“Bringing the name and colours of Spain before the universe is my great dream.
“My goal is to be a spokesperson for a message of inclusion, respect and diversity not only for the LGBTQ+ community, but also for the entire world.”
The historic win came just as international pride month came to a close.
Ponce previously entered Miss World Spain, but missed out on the crown, after becoming Miss Cadiz in 2015.
