The Royal Thai Embassy in London proudly marked the 170th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations between Thailand and the United Kingdom with a distinguished event celebrating women’s empowerment, Thai cultural heritage, and a historic achievement for Thailand on the global stage.

The event also honoured the Birthday Anniversary Month of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother, a revered national figure celebrated for her lifelong commitment to the advancement of women in Thai society.

As part of the commemorative programme, the Embassy hosted an exclusive Afternoon Tea titled:

“Beauty with a Purpose: A Conversation with Opal Suchata, Miss World 2025, on Women’s Empowerment”, held from 15:00–17:00 hrs.

The event highlighted Ms. Opal’s recent “Beauty with a Purpose” (BWAP) UK Tour, showcasing impactful community projects and promoting women’s empowerment across the UK and the world.

This year holds special significance as Ms. Opal Suchata became the first Thai national to be crowned Miss World, an honour awarded by a UK-based organisation, marking a proud milestone for Thailand.

H.E. Mr. Nadhavathna Krishnamra, Ambassador of Thailand to the United Kingdom, welcomed a distinguished gathering of guests including prominent women leaders, diplomats, ambassadors, and changemakers.

Ms. Opal shared her experiences as a guest speaker in a Panel Discussion on Women’s Empowerment, offering insights from her BWAP actions, including breast cancer awareness and the many causes she’s been supporting across the world.

Julia Morley CBE, Chairwoman and Founder of Miss World, said:

“It fills me with pride to see Beauty with a Purpose celebrated in such a meaningful way. Opal’s UK BWAP Tour represents everything Miss World stands for, compassion, intelligence, and a commitment to lifting others. Today is not only a celebration of UK–Thailand friendship, but a reminder of how powerful women’s voices can be when united for good.”

Miss World 2025, Opal Suchata, said:

“To be part of this moment is both humbling and empowering. Representing Thailand as the first Thai Miss World, and sharing the stories of resilience and impact from my BWAP Tour here at the Thai Embassy in the UK, makes me feel deeply grateful and happy. This event reminded me that no matter where we come from, education, empathy, and purpose can truly connect and transform lives.”

The Afternoon Tea brought together female ambassadors, diplomatic spouses, and representatives from charities working to promote girls’ and children’s education in Thailand and across Southeast Asia. Many attendees shared their own initiatives and best practices in this space.

A special exhibition was also unveiled, featuring rare archival materials from Her Majesty Queen Sirikit’s historic State Visit to the United Kingdom in 1960, paying tribute to her enduring legacy in women’s development and international diplomacy.

“One day I will be a diplomat, so taking part in such meaningful event at the Thai Embassy in London, having the opportunity to discuss important issues such as women’s empowerment and causes that are close to my heart, made me feel very grateful and happy”, Opal concluded.

Also present at the event were Miss World England 2025, Charlotte Grant, Miss UK and World Europe 2024 from England, Jessica Ashley, Angie Beasley, the producer of Miss England, and stylist Art Narasit Nuadolo.