The east African nation of Somalia is set to debut in Miss World.
Khadija Omar has been named as Miss World Somalia 2021 and “the first hijabi contestant to represent Somalia at the 70th Miss World”, the organization posted on Instagram. She is set to compete at the upcoming Miss World competition in December in Puerto Rico.
“I can’t believe I’m the first Miss World Somalia. Anyone who knows me, knows how long I’ve desired to compete in pageants and represent hijabi girls worldwide. To see that dream come true is not short of an honour. I hope this inspires young hijabi girls and reminds them that they can dream as big as they aspire,” she said.
Omar is a a 20-year-old professional make-up artist and a psychology major at York University Canada. She grew up at a refugee camp in Nairobi, Kenya before moving to Canada. Growing up with little to no hijab representation on media, she was inspired greatly by hijabi model Halima Arden.
“I had the experience of migrating with my family from my homeland to find access to resources, better opportunities and eventually have an overall good life. I know I’ve had the privilege of moving and having access to these opportunities, but I dont believe the idea of having a ‘safe’ and comfortable life should be a privilege, but be seen as a basic human right,” Omar said.
She is passionate about highlighting issues that affect women and girls from her community, particularly at the refugees camps. For her Beauty with a Purpose project, Omar is working with the UNHCR, Somali Youth Action and United Nations Association of Uganda in highlighting, fundraising for the climate refugees in Somalia. Missosology.Org; Photos from Miss World Somalia
