By Michelle Garcia

Originally published on Advocate.com June 27 2012 7:11 PM ET

Project Runway season 8 contestant Andy South announced that she is now living life as a woman, under the name Nong Ariyaphon Southiphong.

Southiphong, a fan favorite during her season, made the announcement by changing her gender on Facebook as female, and thanking friends and family for their support.

"Much has changed in a year," she said on Facebook according to RadarOnline. "I am blessed to be accepted and welcomed just the way I am. May that love flow through me and onto many others. Live in love for the world that needs it."