"I know I did my country right."
Roma Riaz represented Pakistan at the Miss Universe pageant in Thailand, performing in the preliminary competition with confidence and pride.
After the event, she shared a heartfelt Instagram post, draping Pakistan’s flag around her shoulders and thanking her fans.
In the post, she wrote: “Shukriya Pakistan, from the deepest part of my heart.”
Roma described stepping off the stage as feeling like exhaling a prayer, touched by the support from Pakistanis worldwide.
“To all the people of Pakistan who supported me through this journey – your messages, your love, your belief.”
She emphasised that she carried Pakistan in every look, using her wardrobe to honour the country’s diversity, culture, and identity.
“I carried Pakistan in every look I wore, each one a tribute to the diversity of our nation.”
Roma said she chose the burkini deliberately as a tribute to the faith and culture of Pakistan’s majority population.
“A reminder that modesty and confidence can coexist with pride.”
Roma explained that her dress celebrated Pakistani craftsmanship, with design elements inspired by Lahore’s Sheesh Mahal.
Her evening gown represented the pride of Pakistani Christians and other minority communities, symbolising inclusivity on a global stage.
She said: “It wasn’t just fabric, it was faith, identity, and the story of a girl who dared to dream on behalf of millions.”
Roma highlighted that her appearance reflected authenticity, courage, and the real spirit of Pakistani women rather than striving for perfection.
“I’m proud… not of perfection, but of the courage it took to show the world the real me, the real us.”
“Whatever tomorrow brings, I know I did my country right.”
Earlier, she addressed societal beauty standards and colourism, encouraging pride in natural skin tones and cultural identity.
She stated: “Colourism has taught us to celebrate fairness and to forget where we come from.
“I represent a new generation of South Asian women who don’t fit into the narrow boxes of what people think we should look like.”
Her comments linked her pageant participation with broader social advocacy, inspiring acceptance of diversity and self-confidence.
Fans praised Roma for using her platform to highlight Pakistan’s heritage, craftsmanship, and cultural identity while promoting women’s empowerment.
Her Miss Universe journey demonstrated how global platforms can amplify cultural storytelling and foster national pride through personal authenticity.
Roma Riaz concluded by emphasising courage, authenticity, and her heartfelt connection to Pakistan, thanking everyone who supported her journey.
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