From Miss Universe to Cannes: Roma Riaz Embraces Identity, Purpose, and Global Representation
Pakistani model and beauty queen Roma Riaz has reflected on her journey from representing Pakistan at Miss Universe to walking the red carpet at the Cannes Film Festival, describing it as a path shaped by identity, resilience, and purpose.
In a candid conversation, she discussed representation, online criticism, and the responsibility of being a visible Pakistani woman on global platforms.
Growing Up Across Cultures, Staying Connected to Pakistan
Roma Riaz shared that growing up between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and the UK helped shape her worldview while keeping her identity rooted in Pakistan.
She said her international upbringing taught her to embrace different cultures while remaining connected to her heritage and representing her country with dignity on global stages.
Miss Universe Journey and Rising Representation
She noted that becoming the second woman to represent Pakistan at Miss Universe was both an honour and a responsibility, following the historic participation of Erica Robin.
Roma emphasized that Pakistani women deserve greater visibility on international platforms and expressed pride in showcasing diversity rather than a single standard of beauty.
Cannes Debut and Challenging Beauty Standards
Speaking about her Cannes Film Festival appearance, she said her presence was about cultural representation rather than competition.
Roma Riaz added that seeing her features appreciated on a global stage felt meaningful, especially after years of facing criticism around beauty standards.
She also highlighted that while international platforms are becoming more inclusive, there is still progress needed within Pakistan’s own fashion and media industry.
Fashion as Cultural Storytelling
Her Cannes wardrobe was styled in collaboration with designers including Danish Maqsood and labels such as Caia and Studio SY by Syra Yousuf.
She explained that her outfits were designed as a tribute to Pakistani women who paved the way in art, activism, and culture, turning fashion into a form of remembrance and respect.
Purpose, Mental Strength, and Social Media Pressure
Roma also spoke about dealing with online criticism, saying maintaining mental well-being requires distance, discipline, and focus on purpose.
She shared that faith, routine, and limiting exposure to negativity help her stay grounded despite public scrutiny.
Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Roma Riaz said she is interested in exploring film, fashion, and social impact work, particularly projects focused on education access for women in rural Pakistan.
She emphasized that her long-term goal is to help create opportunities where more women can see themselves represented and empowered in media, leadership, and education.
Her message to young women facing criticism or doubt was simple: staying committed to purpose matters more than external validation, and persistence is key to breaking barriers.
