Hi DAA Lovers,

As an old intern and new correspondent in Turkey, I have good news for you.

Last week the first transgender beauty queen competition held in Frappe Bar, İstanbul. The contest was organized by İstanbul LGBT Solidarity Associations in order to draw attention to LGBT people in the country who face continual legal challenges, discrimination, hate crimes and murders. There were 8 jury members and 15 competitors from different cities. Yanki Bayramoğlu finally took the crown. Bayramoğlu was crowned by Madame Marika who is the first drag queen of Turkey. 500 guests attended the event which was the last event of Istanbul LGBT Pride Week 2014.

If you want to watch the Zenne, male belly dancer, performance in the contest, check the link! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MbGDcBLYTjU