Models Direct has just seen the first images of transgender model Jenna Talackova making history as she took to the stage last night at the Miss Universe Canada Pageant. On first glance there’s no denying that she (literally) stands a head and shoulders above other contestants with their eyes on the crown.

Some of you will remember our report on the controversy that surrounded this 6’1” sexually reassigned model’s successful bid to compete in Miss Universe last month – ‘Transgender Model Jenna Talackova Will Compete In Miss Universe Contest’. Debate around the fairness of her inclusion and the associated implications – that a male-born model could potentially be crowned as the world’s most beautiful woman – has raged over the last few weeks. But the 23-year-old has overcome any difficulties in order to take part as the first ever transgender model in the competition, and she has every intention of winning!

Talackova has been quoted in the Edmonton journal this week as stating that she knows there is “a great battle” ahead but that she’s “in it to win it”. She also added: “If it works out, then great. If not, I’m so proud of myself. I’ve won in so many other ways that I feel good about.

“I’ve set a precedent for a lot of women in my situation so once I step on that stage every woman in every other country that doesn’t have the option I have now can fight for it. I feel so blessed with this opportunity.”

In the official Miss Universe contestant video shown below she states that winning would give her “the power of inspiring others to fulfill their dreams,” and expresses her gratitude to the Miss Canada organisation. “The Miss Universe Canada organization has been amazing. For them to have accepted the fact that I’m competing and paving the way for equality is so honorable to me and makes me very grateful.”

Talackova has also revealed her ambitions to become a model for luxurious lingerie brand Victoria’s Secret and appear on the cover of Sports Illustrated’s swimsuit issue – an achievement associated with the world’s most beautiful female models.

The winner of the Miss Universe Canada competition will be announced on Saturday.