Veejay Floresca’s Inspiring Journey as the First Filipino to Win Project Runway Season 21

Triumph in Threads: Veejay Floresca’s Historic Win

In Season 21 of Project Runway (2025), Veejay Floresca emerged victorious, claiming the grand prize after weeks of creative challenges and fierce competition. Her win was more than personal—it signaled a milestone for representation and perseverance.

Was She the First Filipino to Win Project Runway (U.S.)?

From available records, there has been no previous Filipino winner in the U.S. edition of Project Runway before Veejay. Filipino designers have competed—most notably Veejay herself in Project Runway Philippines (2008), where she placed third. So yes—her win in Season 21 makes her the first Filipino to take the top spot in the U.S. Project Runway main series.

The Road to the Runway: Struggles and Persistence

Veejay’s journey has been defined by long years of dedication and frequent rejections. Before her triumph, she auditioned many seasons without success—waiting more than two decades for the chance to compete on the U.S. show. She first gained exposure in the Philippines, graduating from De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde in fashion design and merchandising. Even then, her work was not always seen or given platform in international circles.

Beyond professional obstacles, Veejay has spoken about the personal struggles she faced as a trans woman, navigating expectations, societal pressure, and the challenge of expressing her identity in environments (often conservative) that do not always welcome difference. Despite these challenges, she held onto her vision: creating fashion that is inclusive, bold, and tied deeply to ideas of authenticity—and achieving excellence in craftsmanship.