Miss International Queen 2026 champions share reflections on Thailand and empowerment

In a bright and welcoming studio at the Bangkok Post headquarters, the newly crowned Miss International Queen 2026, Lo Colby of the United States, joined by Thai second runner‑up Theerachaya Pimkitidaj and Japanese third runner‑up Saki Iwai, sat down for a candid conversation about their experiences in Thailand and the meaning of their titles. The video, released by the Bangkok Post on 21 September 2026, captured the three women as they reflected on the warm hospitality they received, the cultural richness of the country, and the broader message of empowerment that the pageant seeks to promote across Southeast Asia.

First impressions of Thailand’s hospitality

All three contestants agreed that the warmth of Thai hospitality left a lasting impression. Lo Colby described the welcome as “deeply sincere,” noting the genuine smiles of staff and the gentle way the city’s rhythm seemed to embrace visitors. Theerachaya, speaking in her native tongue before switching to English, highlighted how the concept of sanuk—the Thai pursuit of enjoyment and light‑heartedness—was evident in every interaction, from the bustling streets of Bangkok to the quieter corners of the newsroom.

Saki Iwai added that the sense of community in Thailand felt especially resonant for a gathering of women from diverse backgrounds. She observed that the shared meals, the fragrant aromas of street food, and the soft hum of traffic created an atmosphere that felt both lively and comforting. The trio’s shared sentiment was that Thailand’s reputation for kindness is not merely a tourist slogan but a lived reality that shaped their visit.

Beyond the immediate warmth, the women also noted the subtle ways Thai culture honors tradition while embracing modernity. Lo mentioned the graceful balance she saw between ancient temples and sleek skyscrapers, a visual reminder that Thailand, like the pageant itself, navigates the space between heritage and contemporary expression.

Reflections on the title and its significance

When asked about the meaning of their new titles, each contestant spoke of a sense of responsibility that extends beyond personal achievement. Lo Colby emphasized that the Miss International Queen crown represents a platform to amplify voices that have historically been muted. She expressed a desire to use the title to champion inclusivity, particularly for LGBTQ+ individuals seeking acceptance in societies where stigma can still linger.

Theerachaya, as a Thai representative, reflected on the honor of carrying forward a legacy that began in Bangkok decades ago. She spoke of the pageant’s role in showcasing Thailand’s progressive stance on gender diversity, noting that the nation’s Buddhist teachings on compassion and non‑attachment provide a philosophical backdrop for embracing all identities.

Saki Iwai, representing Japan, highlighted the cross‑cultural bridge that the competition builds. She observed that sharing the stage with women from the United States and Thailand underscores a shared humanity that transcends borders, and she hopes the title will encourage dialogue among Asian nations about acceptance and mutual respect.

Connecting the experience to Thai Buddhist values

The conversation naturally turned to how Buddhist principles intersect with the pageant’s mission. Theerachaya referenced the Buddhist concept of metta, or loving‑kindness, as a guiding force for the contestants. She explained that the pageant’s emphasis on empowerment aligns with the practice of extending goodwill to all beings, a value deeply embedded in Thai daily life.

Lo added that the mindfulness she observed in Thai rituals—such as the quiet reverence at temples and the careful preparation of offerings—mirrored the mindfulness required of a public figure. She suggested that the discipline of staying present, a core Buddhist practice, could help her navigate the public responsibilities that accompany her crown.

Saki noted that the serene atmosphere of Buddhist temples offered a space for reflection, allowing her to contemplate the broader impact of her role. She expressed gratitude for the chance to experience these moments of calm amid a busy schedule, seeing them as an invitation to carry the spirit of peace into her future advocacy work.

Impact on local communities and future outreach

All three women spoke about the importance of returning to local communities throughout their reigns. Lo described a vision of traveling to schools and community centers across Southeast Asia to share stories of resilience and self‑acceptance. She emphasized that the title gives her a voice that can reach young people who may feel isolated.

Theerachaya, rooted in Thai society, highlighted ongoing projects that aim to provide safe spaces for gender‑diverse youth. She mentioned collaborations with local NGOs that focus on mental health and education, underscoring that the pageant’s platform can help channel resources and attention to these vital causes.

Saki expressed a desire to foster cultural exchanges between Japan and Thailand, proposing joint workshops that blend traditional arts with contemporary discussions on identity. She believes that such initiatives can build bridges of understanding, reinforcing the pageant’s message that diversity enriches societies.

Regional geopolitics and the pageant’s role

While the conversation remained personal, the contestants touched on the broader regional context in which the Miss International Queen pageant operates. Theerachaya reflected that Thailand’s position as a cultural hub in Southeast Asia offers a unique platform for dialogue on human rights and inclusivity. She suggested that the pageant can serve as a soft‑power tool, showcasing Thailand’s commitment to progressive values on the international stage.

Lo noted that the United States, as a global advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, sees the pageant as a bridge to engage with Southeast Asian societies in a respectful and collaborative manner. She highlighted that cultural exchange through such events can complement diplomatic efforts, fostering goodwill and mutual understanding.

Saki added that Japan’s growing interest in regional cooperation aligns with the pageant’s mission to celebrate diversity. She pointed out that cultural events like Miss International Queen can complement economic and security partnerships, reminding leaders that societal well‑being is a cornerstone of stable regional relations.

Looking ahead: hopes for the next chapter

As the interview drew to a close, each contestant shared a hopeful outlook for the future. Lo expressed a commitment to using her platform to amplify stories of courage, aiming to inspire others to live authentically. She spoke of upcoming travel plans across the ASEAN community, where she hopes to meet local activists and share the message of empowerment.

Theerachaya concluded by reaffirming her dedication to nurturing the next generation of Thai youth, emphasizing that the title is not an endpoint but a beginning of service. She highlighted the importance of listening to community voices and translating those insights into actionable support.

Saki finished with a gentle reminder that the journey of self‑discovery is ongoing for everyone. She encouraged viewers to embrace curiosity and compassion, qualities that the pageant seeks to celebrate. Her final words echoed the shared sentiment of the three women: that the spirit of Miss International Queen 2026 is rooted in love, respect, and the belief that every voice matters.

By Ann Srisawat, Staff Writer

This article was produced with AI-assisted research and editorial support. Reporting is based on the source material cited below. Sources: Bangkok Post video report (21 September 2026); Bangkok Post; Global1.News