Thailand’s leading modeling agency last month celebrated the worldwide launch of its new transgender division.

Bangkok-based Apple Model Management Agency became the first agency in the world to represent transgender models when the division launched in Thailand in November.

Although transgender models have always been widely accepted in the southeast Asian country, the advent of transgender women in the mainstream media sparked the idea of creating a transgender division.

‘We felt we could fill a gap that has been long overdue in the model industry, which is constantly looking for new styles and trends,’ said Noam Lev, the agency director.

Demand for transgender models, such as Andreja Pejic and Lea T, is growing but few Asian transgender models are represented in the fashion industry.

The project started in 2013 when Apple started scouted for trans models on the street and through contests, universities and word of mouth. A casting call was then held at the agency which narrowed the number of girls down to the current 15.

The chosen 15 all met the basic requirements – height of at least 5’8”, aesthetically proportioned body measurements, beautiful face, outgoing personality and favorable character – and were trained to walk, dress, move, pose, and behave as models.

‘To their advantage, transgender models are usually tall, extremely gregarious and appealing, hardworking and can withstand the pressure that comes with the trade,’ Lev said.

‘They also take modeling very seriously and strive really hard to succeed.’

How does Apple envision the transgender division five years from now? Lev hopes that the agency will be able to represent the very best transgender models, not only from Thailand, but from all over the world and book them with top clients in fashion and the commercial industry.

Among the model’s in Apple’s roster is Sarina Thai, who has walked runways in Bangkok, New York Fashion Week and Paris.

‘Pursuing your dream is beautiful. You just have to focus and work hard. The most important thing is to believe. Believe that you can do it,’ she told Gay Star News.

Her agency-mate Vanessa echoed her words.

‘The secret of success in life is to be ready for your opportunity,’ she said.

Meet the other goregous girls below:

Sarina Thai

Vanessa

Bee

Beauty

Kanitnun

Lolita F

Hana