Thai model Mimi Tao has become the first trans woman to hit the catwalk on Bravo's Project Runway - with viewers not only celebrating the show's diverse casting, but the genuine way in which Tao was welcomed.
Paired with contestant Kovid Kapoor in the design show's first episode, Tao revealed the significance of her presence.
“I have been working so hard to get here, especially for the transgender people,” she said to Kapoor.
She added: “They need to work harder than other people. I’m so glad I’m here. I’m the first transgender model in Project Runway. I want to inspire all the transgender young generation who have a dream."
The pair then embraced, with Kapoor calling Tao a "Goddess".
Kapoor later revealed that, as a gay man from India, he empathised with the some of the struggles faced by members of the trans community.
“One day our neighbors called the cops on us [Kapoor and his boyfriend] and we actually had to leave our home the very next day,” he said.
“And that’s why I feel like there is so much connection between her and I.”
