Auckland student Maria Mughal will be representing New Zealand in the Miss Pakistan World beauty pageant next month.
The 10th international pageant is being held in Toronto, Canada, because of security fears for contestants in Pakistan. And 23-year-old Maria, born in Kashmir, Pakistan, and brought up in South Auckland, is excited about the opportunity.
It will be the first time New Zealand is being represented in the controversial pageant, where security threats have been made against contestants in the past.
“Life has not been easy, coming from a strong Islamic background and growing up in a very liberal country. Overcoming this polarity has made me the humble person that I am today, with strong ambitions and perseverance,” a confident Maria told the Indian Weekender.
Maria is currently a student at AUT Business School, and aspires to become a relationship manager within a company.
“I have a confident, approachable and outgoing personality and enjoy trying new things
and challenging myself,” Maria said. “I love learning about different cultures and languages. Generally hear me talking about the latest gadgets, Korean pop and fashion trends. I understand three languages - Hindi, Urdu and Punjabi.
“I have done many photo shoots in the past and catwalk shows for hair modeling.
“In life I feel you shouldn't live with regret, and to treat others the way you would want to
be treated.”
The winner will represent Pakistan in the Miss Earth pageant later.