Actress Noor Xarmina has been named Miss Universe Pakistan 2024 and will represent Pakistan at the 73rd Miss Universe pageant this November. The announcement was made via a video posted on the official Miss Universe YouTube channel on Saturday.
At 29, Xarmina, who transitioned from a venture capitalist to acting, holds degrees in biology and business. Originally from Islamabad, she recently returned to Pakistan. In the video, Xarmina expressed her commitment to driving “positive change” in her homeland.
“I aim to make a difference in two key areas. First, I want to boost Pakistan’s representation on the global stage, as our country is underrepresented internationally in many fields. Second, I seek to inspire change for women in Pakistan. Our nation needs strong female leaders to mobilize and empower women to foster positive societal progress,” Xarmina said.
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In response to questions about the government’s support for Xarmina’s international representation, Pakistani Information Minister Ataullah Tarar stated, “I am not familiar with her background or achievements prior to this. We will need to review her contributions to projecting Pakistan’s positive image and development. If she has indeed played a role in these areas, we can discuss potential support.”
Tarar also highlighted that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif recently honored Naila Kiyani, a UAE-based Pakistani mountaineer, for her accomplishments. “We believe that achievements should be recognized,” Tarar added.
Last year, Erica Robin made history as the first Pakistani woman to win the Miss Universe Pakistan title. Prior to this, no woman from predominantly Muslim Pakistan had participated in the Miss Universe pageant.
The Miss Universe Pakistan pageant, organized by the Yugen Group of Dubai, selects a representative for the Miss Universe competition. Noor Xarmina’s victory represents a significant milestone for Pakistan as it continues to make notable strides on the global stage.