Roma Riaz, the Pakistani beauty queen who made waves at the Miss Universe pageant in 2025 and the 79th Cannes Film Festival, is a force to be reckoned with. Her journey is a testament to the power of self-acceptance, cultural pride, and the ability to break barriers. In this article, I'll delve into her story, exploring her unique perspective on beauty, her impact on the industry, and her vision for the future.
A Cultural Mosaic
Roma's journey began in a melting pot of cultures. Growing up in Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and the UK, she was exposed to a diverse range of traditions and perspectives. This unique upbringing shaped her identity, teaching her to embrace the best of each culture while staying true to her roots. Her connection to Pakistan was always central, instilling a sense of responsibility to represent her culture with respect and authenticity.
Breaking Barriers, One Title at a Time
As the second woman to carry the Miss Universe Pakistan title globally, Roma's visibility is a powerful statement. She feels a deep emotional connection to this role, knowing that her presence on international platforms is long overdue. At Miss Universe 25, she wanted to showcase the diversity of Pakistani women, challenging the notion of a single beauty standard. Her goal was to present a global yet deeply rooted Pakistani woman, a message that resonated with audiences worldwide.
Challenging Colorism and Beauty Standards
Roma's advocacy for inclusivity extends beyond the pageant stage. She has been vocal about challenging colorism and conventional beauty standards in the South Asian industry. Her statement, "I will not apologise for looking like my people," is a powerful declaration of self-love and cultural pride. Seeing her features celebrated at Cannes is a full-circle moment, as she reflects on the historical exclusion and criticism she faced. This celebration of diversity is a step towards genuine inclusivity, but Roma acknowledges that the Pakistani industry still has a long way to go.
Cannes: A Cultural Presence
Roma's presence at the 79th Cannes Film Festival was not about competition but about cultural representation. She wanted to occupy a global cultural space that has rarely included Pakistani women. Her preparation for the red carpet differed from the pageant stage, focusing on storytelling, energy, and authenticity. She walked the carpet as herself, embracing her heritage with confidence. Her styling at Cannes was a tribute to the courage and sacrifice of Pakistani women who broke barriers in various fields, paying homage to their legacy.
Business Savvy Meets Beauty Queen
Roma's background in business management and her role as an assistant merchandiser for JD Sports Fashion have influenced her approach to managing her brand. She values discipline, consistency, and a results-driven mindset. This professional experience reminds her that titles and visibility are temporary, but integrity and work ethic are enduring. It helps her stay grounded and approach her endeavors with balance and sincerity.
Empowering Women, One Step at a Time
Roma is committed to using her platform to improve educational access for women in rural Pakistan. She is working behind the scenes with small-scale initiatives and educators, focusing on long-term solutions. Her goal is to build a sustainable program that supports girls' enrollment, retention, growth, and leadership. This is a lifelong commitment, as she believes education is a powerful tool for change.
Navigating Online Criticism
Roma has faced significant online criticism and trolling regarding her appearance. She prioritizes her mental well-being and focuses on her purpose. She stays grounded through faith, routine, and distance from toxic online spaces. By reminding herself that people project their insecurities onto visibility, she rises above the noise. Rest, reflection, and community are essential to her strategy, as she understands that strength comes from knowing what deserves her energy.
Beyond the Pageant
Looking ahead, Roma is open to exploring film, driven by the goal of representation. She wants darker-skinned girls to see themselves centered in media, whether through film, fashion, or leadership roles. Her career path is diverse, with a focus on changing narratives and contributing to social impact. She believes purpose can exist in multiple industries, and her journey is a testament to the power of self-belief and perseverance.
A Message of Resilience
Roma's message to Pakistani women facing challenges in global spaces is one of resilience and purpose. She encourages them to embrace their presence, even when it feels invisible. Validation may be elusive, but purpose is a driving force. She reminds them that criticism and misunderstanding are inevitable, especially when occupying spaces not designed for them. Rest is essential, but quitting on oneself is not. The world expands when women refuse to shrink, and Roma's journey is a shining example of this powerful message.
