Roma Riaz, the 27-year-old Miss Universe Pakistan 2025, has ignited a global conversation about beauty standards after her selection sparked polarizing reactions. Representing Pakistan on the international stage in Thailand, Roma, who hails from a Punjabi Christian family and was raised in the UK, has faced intense scrutiny over her skin tone and body type. Critics have questioned her suitability, citing her darker complexion, Christian faith, and foreign upbringing as deviations from the conventional Pakistani beauty ideal. Comments such as ‘too dark,’ ‘she needs to lose weight,’ and ‘not a true representation of Pakistani beauty’ have highlighted the deeply ingrained preference for lighter skin in South Asia. However, Roma has embraced the platform to challenge these biases, stating, ‘This pageant was more than just becoming Miss Universe Pakistan. It’s an answer to everyone that has ever questioned my identity.’ She emphasized that beauty is not confined to a single mould, advocating for inclusivity and diversity. Beyond beauty, Roma is committed to promoting education for girls, asserting, ‘Education is empowerment, and I want our girls to be more educated, more respected.’ Her supporters have lauded her courage, with one social media user noting, ‘Why do people find it hard to believe pale people exist in the UK and darker tones exist in Pakistan? They’re both beautiful in their own ways.’ Roma’s journey underscores the evolving standards of beauty pageants and the importance of representation in challenging societal norms.
‘Too dark’: Miss Universe Pakistan Roma Riaz sparks debate over beauty standards
