Erica Robin, a 25-year-old model hailing from Karachi’s Christian community, has become the first-ever Pakistani to represent the country at the Miss Universe 2023 pageant in El Salvador.
Upon her arrival at the pageant venue, Erica conveyed her gratitude, taking to Instagram to express how “blessed” she feels to carry the responsibility of representing Pakistan alongside nearly 90 delegates from various corners of the globe, all united in advocating for equality, purpose, and sisterhood.
The inclusion of Erica Robin, who was recently crowned Miss Universe Pakistan, in the 72nd Miss Universe pageant is being celebrated as a noteworthy stride towards fostering greater diversity and inclusion, earning applause from both enthusiasts and organizers alike. The much-anticipated finale is scheduled for Saturday, providing Erica with the opportunity to compete on the international stage.
During the preliminary round, which featured the swimsuit event, Erica made a significant statement by donning a burkini—a stylish pink burka that covered her body—as a respectful gesture acknowledging Pakistan’s cultural values. This bold choice has sparked both celebration and criticism.
While some conservatives have labeled Erica’s participation as “shameless,” human rights activist Sherkan Malik sees her representation as a potentially positive force. He points out that women in Pakistan are often confined to domestic roles, underscoring the significance of Erica’s presence as a Christian woman who articulates her thoughts eloquently on television. This, he believes, marks a meaningful and positive development.
Read more: Karachi’s Erica Robin Becomes First Ever Miss Universe Pakistan.
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