Trans business tycoon makes history after buying Miss Universe pageant for $20 million
A Thai trans activist and business tycoon has bought the long-running Miss Universe Organisation in a landmark deal. On 28 October, the CEO of JKN Global Group PCL, Anne Jakkaphong Jakrajutatip, announced the company’s acquisition of the world-renowned organisation for $20 million.
The international competition was previously owned by IMG Worldwide LLC, who bought it from Donald Trump 2015. In a press release, the public figure described the move as a “strong, strategic addition” to the business’ portfolio.
Before landing the landmark takeover, Jakrajutatip had made a name for herself on an array of reality TV shows, including Thai iterations of the popular Project Runway and Shark Tank franchises.
The successful businesswoman has also been an outspoken advocate for the trans community and even created the nonprofit organisation Life Inspired For Transsexual Foundation (per USA Today).
