Hey, Seattle! Big news from our vibrant nightlife scene: Midori Monét, a beloved figure on Capitol Hill and a trailblazer for Transgender visibility, is gearing up to take the national stage at the Miss International Queen USA pageant December 8-12 in Las Vegas.

If you've spent any time soaking up the energy of our city's LGBTQ+ hot spots, chances are you've seen Midori light up the stage with her unforgettable performances.

Midori's journey is deeply rooted in our community. "I chose to be Miss Capitol Hill because I wanted to represent the Queer district of Seattle and all of my LGBTQ+ community," she told me, her eyes gleaming with pride.

For her, Capitol Hill isn't just a neighborhood - it's the heartbeat of Seattle's nightlife and a platform that has shaped her career. "Highlighting Seattle nightlife and Queer life makes everything I do worthwhile," she added. "I wanted to put my community at the forefront."

Balancing the spotlight with self-care
Preparing for a national pageant while maintaining a bustling nightlife career is no small feat, but Midori makes it look effortless. "I've developed a system to de-stress," she explained. "I'm focusing on my diet, skincare, getting good sleep, and staying creatively stimulated."

"Keeping my stress to a minimum and enjoying each day is key," she emphasized, embodying a self-care ethos many of us aspire to.

And get this: she's designing her own evening gown and part of her national costume!

The upcoming pageant isn't just about competing; it's also a family reunion. "My parents live out in Las Vegas," she mentioned with excitement. "Every time I visit, my skin just clears up - it's like magic!"

For Midori, Vegas is more than the glitz and glamour; it's a place to relax and recharge. "It's time for me to get myself ready, unwind, and do what I do best," she said with a wink.

Inspired by trailblazers
Midori draws inspiration from Trans women who've paved the way, like Jazell Barbie Royale and Kataluna Enriquez. Their achievements ignited her passion for pageantry. "After watching Kataluna win Miss Silver State and Miss Nevada, I just knew I had to apply," she recalled.

Her historic accomplishment as the first Trans woman to place in the top six at Miss Washington USA speaks volumes about her talent and determination.

Recently, Midori embraced a new chapter by adopting the name Midori Monét - one rich in personal significance.

"All the girls in my family have Japanese names given by my grandmother," she explained. When she asked her grandmother what her name would be, she was told "Midori," meaning green. "She said when she sees me, she sees peace, joy, tranquility, and lots of money," Midori said with a laugh. The name beautifully intertwines her heritage with her identity as a performer.

The multitalented performer
If you've caught one of Midori's shows, you know she's a powerhouse. As a designer, model, and entertainer, she brings a unique flair to every performance.

"All the facets that make me me as an entertainer go hand in hand," she said. "Designing and creating my own costumes adds to the whole package that is the Midori Monét experience."

Midori is quick to acknowledge the incredible support she's received along the way. "I have to thank everyone in Seattle, my network, the SeaTac ballroom community, and the Pacific Northwest ballroom community," she said gratefully.

She also gave a heartfelt shoutout to her fiancé, Mufasa. "They continuously uplift me, push me, and challenge me to be the best I can be," she added warmly.

Using her platform for advocacy
Living authentically is at the core of Midori's mission. "Living my life in my authentic truth every day is an act of rebellion against society," she stated passionately. She hopes her visibility will challenge misconceptions and advocate for Transgender rights.

"We all deserve to be seen in the height of our glory," she declared.

While Midori shines under the club lights, she also values connecting with people offstage. "I've had folks come up to me and say, 'Aren't you Midori Monét? You competed in Miss USA,'" she said. "It's amazing to see how it inspires, especially younger Trans women."

For those in the Transgender community looking to pursue their passions, Midori has straightforward advice: "Like Nike says, just do it!" she said encouragingly. "Put yourself out there and hit the ground running. You're ready exactly where you are."

Changing perceptions one performance at a time
Midori believes that events like Miss International Queen USA are vital for fostering acceptance and changing perceptions.

"We get to live our truth in all of our regalia," she said. "It truly shifts how people see us — visible and proud in our identities."

As the pageant approaches, Midori feels the love from the community. "It truly takes a village," she acknowledged. "I want to give that love back and say thank you."

Her recent announcement on Instagram was met with overwhelming support. "The responses have been so lovely," she said, her gratitude shining through.

So, Seattle, let's rally behind Midori as she represents us on the national stage! Follow her on Instagram @midorimonet to keep up with her journey. Whether she's lighting up the clubs on Capitol Hill or dazzling audiences in Vegas, Midori embodies the spirit and resilience of our city's nightlife.

"Stay tuned, baby," Midori said with a confident smile. And you bet we will - eagerly watching her next move and rooting for her every step of the way.

Alan Motley is a nightlife columnist for the SGN, covering the vibrant LGBTQ+ scenes and stories that make our city shine after dark.