Filipino designer Veejay Floresca claimed a groundbreaking victory as the winner of Project Runway Season 21, adding another international triumph to the Philippines’ roster of recent wins.
Floresca, who has long been based in the United States, turned emotional as host-judge Heidi Klum announced her name during the finale.
“I was just a little gay boy in the Philippines watching the show, and I’ve always been wanting to do this,” she said, wiping away tears. “And now, this is my time. Thank you for being part of my dream.”
Her win comes after a tense fashion showdown against finalists Jesus Estrada and Ethan Mundt, who both showed support for Floresca after the announcement.
Floresca said her victory was not just personal, but also for her community.
“I wanted to be the first trans woman to win Project Runway. I think that will really inspire my community that you can actually reach your dreams by being who you are,” she said.
A familiar name in Philippine fashion, Floresca was runner-up in Project Runway Philippines in 2008 and later represented the country in Miss Trans Star International 2022, where she reached the Top 16.
