Mimi Tao
Mimi Tao | |
|---|---|
| Born | 1992 or 1993 (age 30–31)[1] Thailand |
| Occupation | Fashion model |
| Television | Project Runway |
Mimi Tao is a Thai fashion model.
Early life
Tao grew up in Khon Kaen, Thailand.[2] At eleven she became a monk, but left the monastery after six years to help her family, who had been bankrupted by a financial crisis.[2] She was a fan of Rojjana Phetkanha and persuaded Phetkanha to help her learn to model.[2][3]
Career
Tao moved to the United States in 2017 to pursue a modeling career after failed attempts in Thailand and Singapore.[3][1] In 2021 Tao became a regular model on season 19 of Project Runway.[3][2] She was the show's first transgender model.[4][5] She also was a regular model in 2023's season 20.
As of 2019 Tao is represented by the Los Angeles modeling agency Slay, which represents only transgender models.[2][1]
Personal life
Tao is a Buddhist. She is transgender.[2]
References
- ^ a b c "From Buddhist Monk to transgender model, meet Mimi Tao". FOX 11 Los Angeles. 2018-11-06. Retrieved 2023-08-09.
- ^ a b c d e f Vitkute, Demi (2019-03-15). "Mimi Tao was the first transgender person on 'Project Runway.' She says she can't change the industry alone". The Washington Post. Retrieved 2023-08-09.
- ^ a b c Chong Seow Wei (19 March 2021). "Transgender model Mimi Tao on Buddhism, beauty standards, and self-acceptance". Tatler Asia. Retrieved 2023-08-09.
- ^ Rodriguez, Matthew (14 March 2019). "'Project Runway's First Transgender Model Wants to Change the Industry". Out Magazine. Retrieved 2023-08-09.
- ^ Lee, Amy (2019-03-14). "'Project Runway' 2.0 Debuts With Heartfelt Moment From Series' First Transgender Model | Entertainment Tonight". Entertainment Tonight. Retrieved 2023-08-10.