According to Hoa Hoc Tro Newspaperin a video posted to her Instagram, Thae urgently appealed to the global community, highlighting the dire situation in Myanmar. She described how many people are struggling to find food, basic necessities, and shelter. Dressed simply with her hair tied back, she emphasized that she would not have asked for help unless the situation was truly critical.

Thae’s actions extended beyond a digital call for aid. She was seen on the streets, carrying a cardboard box filled with donated items and interacting warmly with locals. Despite her celebrity status, she remained approachable and even took time to pose for photos with her fans.

Miss Grand Myanmar 2024 Thae Su Nyein (wearing a facial mask) on the streets of Myanmar, carrying a cardboard box filled with donated items and engaging warmly with locals. Photo from Thae’s Instagram

The earthquake that struck central Myanmar on March 28 was recorded at a magnitude of 7.7, according to the United States Geological Survey. Tremors were felt in neighboring countries, including Thailand, Vietnam, and parts of China. Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra convened an emergency meeting in response to the disaster.

As of Friday, the earthquake’s death toll had surpassed 3,100, according to Reuters. Among the victims was Myanmar beauty queen Silimee, who was crowned Miss Tourism Myanmar 2018 and represented her country in the Miss Tourism World 2018 competition.

At 18, Thae was crowned second runner-up at the 2024 Miss Grand International pageant in October last year. However, she was visibly upset and opted out of post-event activities, later announcing on Instagram that she would return her crown. She cited feeling cheated out of two special awards, Best in National Costume and Country’s Power of the Year, which were instead awarded to other contestants.

Following her actions, the Miss Grand International organization revoked her title, citing “inappropriate behavior.”