Miss Thailand 2006 Lalana Kongtoranin, 27, also known to her fans as Dr. Jeab Lalana, has gained an even bigger following of late due to her new tomboy look and recent appearance on Woody Talk earlier this year. But the one-time beauty queen is also now a fully-qualified doctor. We caught up with her ahead of her big concert, “What Women Worth,” taking place this Jul 18 at BCC Hall, Central Ladprao, to discuss where her priorities lie.

So, tell us about your “new look.”

People have asked me in so many interviews why I look more “masculine” now. But I haven’t really changed. I’ve looked like this for a while—short hair and all—but there’s probably more hype now because of my Instagram account. The biggest change for me over the years is actually becoming a full-time resident doctor at Ramathibodi Hospital. It’s a big responsibility, and I want to do it well.

Why did you become a doctor?

I never wanted to become a doctor, or Miss Thailand for that matter. In middle school, I went to see the dentist to get a retainer, and felt like they were able to make so much money by doing so little. I decided that was what I wanted to do! When I got to spend time with patients during my internships, I actually realized how much work there is.

What’s your day-to-day life like?

I rarely have a day off. I work in the emergency ward, so I could be on call at literally any time of the day. But it’s all out of choice. If I could have a proper weekend, I’d probably want to rest at home, spend quality time with my family, my niece and the people that I love… and run around with my dogs.

How do you compare your various achievements?

I don’t have a “biggest achievement.” I’ve never thought about life that way. As long as I’m actively doing something good for society, that makes me happy. Becoming Miss Thailand was, to me, just a way to reach a wider audience, and direct people’s attention towards serious social issues that I care about. Ultimately, I do have a dream to open a free clinic.

Do you have any regrets about yourbeauty-pageant past?

If I could do it all over again, I wouldn’t change a thing. I actually really like being where I am today. I embrace everything, and I think it’s a blessing getting to learn from my mistakes. We all have to face them at some point. I also learned you don’t have to be the prettiest person in the room. You just need to be comfortable with who you are, and be who you want to be.

Are you excited about your upcoming concert?

I’ve never had to sing or dance in front of a huge crowd before. So I’m actually a bit nervous. But the team is great, and the concert is packed with leading female artists and celebrities in Thailand—it’ll be a fun, entertaining evening.

What’s next for you?

On the side, I have a Club Friday series coming out soon, as well as other TV series lined up, but that’s all in the pipeline at the moment.
 

 
Tickets are B1,200-2,500, available on Thaiticketmajor

 

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