“This journey is about more than just a crown—it’s about representation, breaking barriers, and proving that beauty, strength, and authenticity belong to everyone,” Bautista wrote of the decision to compete in an online fundraiser for the effort. “Your contribution will not only help fund my journey but will also support my mission of visibility, inclusion, and empowerment for all. If you believe in diversity, representation, and making history together, I’d be so grateful for your support—every dollar, share, and word of encouragement makes a difference.”

Nearly 100 contestants attended the Miss Georgia Scholarship Competition annual forum earlier this week. These will become Bautista’s competition for the crown, starting June 11.

The winner of Miss Georgia will represent the state at the Miss America contest. Georgia last took the title in 2016 when Betty Cantrell of Warner Robins won.

This comes two years after the Netherlands crowned a transgender contestant as its national representative ahead of Miss Universe. Transgender contestants have been allowed by the Miss Universe Pageant system since 2012. At the time, President Donald Trump still owned Miss Universe and welcomed the first transgender Miss Canada. A transgender contestant has yet to win the title of Miss Universe.

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In 2021, the Georgia House issued a resolution recognizing Nov. 20 as Trans Day of Remembrance. Bautista made an appearance at the state Capitol to commemorate the event.

However, last week, Georgia legislators advanced a bill to ban transgender athletes from women’s sports. This was a follow-up to Trump’s executive order doing the same.