Erica Robin, the Miss Universe nominee from Pakistan, has announced that she will wear a burkini in response to criticism from the local cleric and interim administration.
In response, the contestant in the beauty pageant vowed to present “the beautiful side of Pakistan” on a global stage while dressing modestly.
“I want to show the beautiful side of Pakistan, away from all the negativity and hate that we see on some media outlets,” Erica Robin told The National.
“I also confirmed numerous times that I will wear a burkini as I have an immense respect for our culture – and it’s also my personal choice,” she added.
Also read: Who is Erica Robin — the first Miss Universe from Pakistan
Robin, 24, a model by job from Karachi, won the competition last month and will represent Pakistan as the first competitor worldwide.
Robin, who is a member of Pakistan’s minority Christian community, says Miss Universe is a great platform to “showcase the best of what women can achieve in any field they have chosen.”
“This platform has evolved to advocate and empower causes to make the world a better place to live,” she added.
“A lot of people have asked me why I wanted to stay in Pakistan; my answer is very simple – it is my home,” she said.
“It is the place where I am grateful to live and where all my dreams came true. It’s not perfect, but I feel I should spread the message of positivity and highlight the goodness in my country because there is a lot to celebrate in Pakistan.”
“It feels great to represent Pakistan. But I don’t understand where the backlash is coming from. I think it is this idea that I would be parading in a swimsuit in a room full of men,” Robin told the BBC.
“I’m not breaking any law by representing Pakistan on a global platform. I am doing my bit to quell any stereotypes about it,” she further added.
“I will wear a burkini in the upcoming,” says Miss Universe Pakistan nominee Erica Robin.
El Salvador will host the upcoming Miss Universe competition in November. The competition, which will take place over several weeks and feature representatives from more than 80 nations, will crown its winner on November 18.
