A native of Thailand, Bui Simon has received accolades from her country both for being the first Thai Miss Universe in 23 years and her consistent charitable endeavors that help children in need. In 1988, the year she won the international beauty pageant, the country presented her with a Thai Royal Medal of Honour and the title of United Nations Goodwill Ambassador of Thailand for her extensive work with youths. Thailand’s Queen Sirikit presided over her 2002 marriage to Herbert Simon, owner of Simon Property Group, Inc., and the Indiana Pacers. The ceremony took place in the Royal Summer Palace.

Also in 2002, Bui Simon created Angels Wings Foundation International, Inc. For nearly a decade, she has served as head of the philanthropic organization devoted to helping the people of Thailand with schools, orphanages, medical care, and education. After the 2004 tsunami, Angels Wings Foundation International, Inc., created 100 new homes and found families for children who lost their parents in the catastrophe. In 2010, Bui Simon presented the Royal Thai Police with a donation of 10 million baht to create houses in Amphur Takuapa. Expanding educational opportunities remains an important goal for Bui Simon. As such, she has developed several scholarships for Thai students to study in America, and provided American students with Thai ancestry the opportunity to learn in their motherland.

Now based in Malibu, California, Bui Simon and her family visit Thailand at least twice a year. Prior to her work with Angels Wings Foundation International, Inc., Bui Simon served as a spokesperson for Colgate-Palmolive Company, PepsiCo, Inc., and Revlon in Thailand, as well as lead anchor for 60 Minutes II, Thailand’s version of the popular U.S. program.