This Muslim beauty queen refused to wear a bikini onstage, and she may have changed pageants forever
This week in all things progressive and awesome, Muna Jama, a Muslim beauty pageant contestant, made history when she boldly competed in the swimsuit portion of the Miss Universe Great Britain wearing a kaftan. If you’ll recall from beauty pageants of yore, the swimsuit portion requires contestants to stride around stage in a bikini. Well, wearing a bikini goes against Muna’s religion. She made the difficult decision to sit out the swimsuit portion if it meant she had to don a two-piece. After some discussion, the pageant heads allowed her to cover up for the swimsuit portion. The end result delivered many oohs and ahhs. Not to mention a historic game-changer.
A post shared by Muna Jama (@ms_munajama)
on Jul 18, 2017 at 8:56am PDT
The colors! The movement! The accessories! Muna is a vision in this ensemble. More importantly, Muna became the first woman to walk the bikini portion in a kaftan. One small walk equals one huge stride for people everywhere.
A post shared by Muna Jama (@ms_munajama)
on Aug 3, 2017 at 10:35am PDT
Muna made a strong point about her original decision, and it’s one we are all clapping for. She told Metro UK:
“I wouldn’t wear a bikini to the beach, so I’m not going to wear one in a competition to score points.”
A post shared by Muna Jama (@ms_munajama)
on Jul 16, 2017 at 12:05am PDT
On her Instagram page, she reflected on this pivotal moment and delivered some advice we all need to hear:
“It takes bravery, emotional resilience and most importantly surrounding yourself with strong minded people who are prepared to make great sacrifices to welcome permanent and positive change. I may not be able to unwrite a moment in my life. But I know a moment will never define me. I will always rise above your expectations and pushed past your limitations… This moment has proved that I am capable of almost anything I set my mind to and limitations is a status waiting to be changed. I thank everyone who stood beside me and believed in my vision.”
A post shared by Muna Jama (@ms_munajama)
on Aug 5, 2017 at 2:37am PDT
Your bravery knows no bounds. Thank you for speaking up and changing the name of the game. We salute you, Muna!
