From a life-changing crash to a platform for empowerment
In an intimate conversation in Quezon City, Sue Tran, the reigning Mrs. Universe Asia USA 2025, opened up about a life-altering near-death experience that occurred in October 2024 on a busy freeway in Atlanta, Georgia. She described a moment when a truck struck her Tesla, dragging her along the road and leaving a permanent impression in her memory. “That truck could have fallen on me,” she said, reflecting on the split-second choice to cling to hope as she faced a possible end. The incident, she noted, replayed in her mind as the clock ticked down to 57 seconds that proved to be a turning point in her life.
With a calm resolve, Sue explained that she perceived the accident as a divine second chance. “God gave me a second chance,” she shared, emphasizing that the event has given her a renewed sense of purpose beyond the glamour of titles. The experience has become a cornerstone of her public message: using her voice to support women and to advocate for a future free from domestic violence.
A calling bigger than a crown
In discussing what motivates her to remain in pageantry, Sue underscored that her aspirations extend far beyond winning a title. She sees Mrs. Universe Asia USA 2025 as a platform to enact meaningful change—especially by addressing the cycle of violence that too often traps women and children. “It’s not about having a title. Other queens want a title. But for me, I want to make this platform to make an impact not only for women but for the future generation,” she stated.
She emphasized the pageant’s advocacy on preventing domestic violence and expanding women’s empowerment. Sue has lived experiences of working with survivors and witnesses to the effects of abuse, which she says fuels her determination to voice for those who cannot. “There are so many women today who don’t even know that they are in a narcissistic environment. I have seen how they suffered, not only them, but the kids. It becomes a cycle. Somebody has to have a voice for these women,” she said.
Using a platform for practical impact
As she prepares for the Mrs. Universe 2025 competition, set for Oct. 8 at Okada Manila, Sue remains focused on mission over vanity. She sees the pageant as a vehicle to reach a broad audience and to inspire lasting change. “Once you have a good platform, your voice reaches a broader audience,” she explained, adding that she wants to engage communities beyond those already engaged with advocacy work.
Regarding the ongoing pressures of competition, Sue expressed a generous solidarity with fellow contestants and framed their shared journey as an opportunity to uplift women collectively. “We are all women. I am here to enjoy and give a positive impact,” she noted, signaling a collaborative, rather than competitive, spirit.
Character, money, and humanity
When asked to choose between beauty and character, Sue offered a thoughtful answer: character development matters more because beauty fades. “What have you done for humanity?” she asked, highlighting that public figures must be judged by their deeds and contributions rather than appearances alone.
She also addressed a controversial notion about money and morality, arguing that money, properly used, can drive positive change. “Money is great. Money is amazing. It can move mountains the right way. It is the user who can make it evil, not the money,” Sue said. She believes financial resources can empower initiatives for children and women, supporting education, safety, and economic opportunities that reduce vulnerability to crime and exploitation.
Looking to the future
Sue Tran’s near-death experience has provided a lens through which she views her responsibilities as a public figure. Her message is clear: to leverage influence for the welfare of women and the protection of children, and to challenge the social norms that perpetuate violence. As she steps closer to the Mrs. Universe 2025 stage, she carries the conviction that this journey is about more than crowns—it is about creating lasting, positive change for generations to come.
