Marina Machete, a Portuguese model and flight attendant, entered the record books by securing the Miss Portugal 2023 title on October 5, marking a historic moment as the first transgender woman to achieve this accolade.
Notably, she is the second trans woman to grace the Miss Universe stage, following Rikkie Valerie Kolle from Myanmar. This blog post delves into Marina’s life journey, her transformative surgery, and the noteworthy milestones she has attained.
Early Life and Education
Born in 1995 in Palmela, a quaint town near Lisbon, Machete navigated a conservative upbringing after being assigned male at birth. Realizing her true gender identity early on, she confronted societal challenges and discrimination.
At 18, she underwent gender affirmation surgery, officially changing her name and gender. Completing high school in Palmela, she pursued a degree in tourism management at the Polytechnic Institute of Setubal, mastering English, French, and Spanish along the way.
Career and Achievements
With five years as a flight attendant for a Portuguese airline, Machete thrives on the diversity and learning opportunities her job provides. Having explored over 30 countries, she’s cultivated lasting friendships. Driven by a passion for beauty pageants, Machete entered the Miss Portugal 2023 competition, triumphing over 19 contestants with her beauty, confidence, intelligence, and charisma. Winning the crown and the title in Borba on October 5, she also earned recognition as the most confident contestant.
Machete’s historic victory
positions her as the first transgender Miss Portugal and the second trans woman set to compete in the Miss Universe pageant. In this role, she follows in the footsteps of Angela Ponce of Spain, who participated in the Miss Universe 2018 pageant. As Machete prepares to represent Portugal in the Miss Universe 2023 pageant in El Salvador, she aspires to make her nation proud.
Surgery, Before and After
Undergoing gender affirmation surgery at 18, Machete emphasizes the significance of this decision in making her feel complete and happy. Proud of her identity, she advocates for transgender rights and inclusion. While photos pre-transition are not available, as she keeps her past private, Machete prefers to be defined by her present and future rather than her history.
Post-surgery, Machete radiates with stunning beauty and elegance. Possessing a slender figure, long blonde hair, and captivating blue eyes, she embodies the quintessential beauty queen and successful model.
Conclusion
Marina Machete’s journey is one of resilience, triumph, and breaking barriers. As a trailblazer for the trans community, she stands as an inspiration for young women. With a beauty that goes beyond the surface, she is Marina Machete, the trailblazing Miss Portugal.