I recently had the chance to sit down with Roma Riaz, who represented Pakistan at the Miss Universe pageant in 2025 and recently made her debut at the 79th Cannes Film Festival. During our conversation, we spoke about everything from representing Pakistan on international platforms to fashion, identity, visibility, and the emotional weight of carrying a title that sparks both admiration and debate back home.
What followed was a deeply candid discussion about the complicated realities of being a modern Pakistani woman in the public eye.
Images: Having grown up between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and the UK, which aspects of each culture do you feel most define your personality and your approach to the pageant world?
Roma: Growing up in different countries gave me perspective. It taught me how to take the good from each culture and shape myself intentionally, instead of feeling confined to one way of being. But no matter where I lived, my connection to Pakistan was always central. It gave me a sense of responsibility to carry my culture with respect and honesty. Everything I step into globally is tied back to where I come from and the weight of representing my people with dignity.
Images**: Following Erica Robin’s historic debut, you became the second woman to carry the Miss Universe Pakistan title on a global stage. How do you feel about the growing visibility of Pakistani women in international pageantry, and what unique aspect of your own heritage were you most excited to showcase at Miss Universe 25?**
