Alumni

Grad Crowned Miss Nevada Makes History

FIDM Fashion Design Graduate Kataluna Enriquez has made history as the first trans woman to qualify for Miss USA after being crowned Miss Nevada on June 28, 2021. The Filipina-American model wore a sparkling rainbow-colored gown of her own design in honor of Pride Month. "Huge thank you to everyone who supported me from day one," she posted to Instagram after the competition. "My community, you are always in my heart. My win is our win. We just made history. Happy pride." Her notable achievement occurred on the 52nd anniversary of the Stonewall riots. 

Earlier this year, Kataluna was selected by The Advocate as a 2021 Champion of Pride. “I use my platform and work to advocate for many causes and to help bridge the gap of our communities,” she told the publication. The 27-year-old alumna, who graduated from FIDM in 2013, bested 21 other contestants in three areas of competition: interview, swimsuit/activewear, and evening gown. The judging criteria is based on character, poise, confidence, and personality. She regularly designs the pieces she wears in competition under the label Kataluna Kouture, which she founded in 2016.  

Kataluna is originally from San Leandro, California and is currently based in Las Vegas, Nevada. A biography on the Miss Silver State USA’s Instagram mentions Enriquez is a survivor of physical and sexual abuse who “aims to break barriers and represent those who aren’t always represented and continues to support numerous non-profit organizations and LGBTQ+ youth.” She will compete in the Miss USA pageant at River Spirit Casino Resort’s Paradise Cover Theater in Tulsa, Oklahoma in November. The winner of Miss USA will represent the United States at the Miss Universe competition. 

Keep up with Kataluna on Instagram @mskataluna and @katalunakouture. 

Images via Instagram

Categories:  Fashion Design Alumni