Khadija Omar: Somali-Canadian Model Creates Space for Women's Visibility
Khadija Omar, a Somali-Canadian model, beauty queen, and mental health advocate, is making history on the global stage. Born in a Kenyan refugee camp and raised in Canada, she became the first hijabi contestant to compete in both Miss World and Miss Universe, representing Somalia and challenging traditional beauty standards worldwide. A graduate of York University, Khadija is also a content creator, refugee rights advocate, and supporter of organizations like Smile Train Africa, using her platform to champion inclusivity, representation, and impact.
Childhood Influence and Early Struggles
Khadija was born in a refugee camp and moved to Canada in 2010 at age 10. She was placed in ESL classes, learning English while adjusting to a new environment. This cultural shift required her to navigate different identities, balancing her Somali background with Canadian culture. Growing up, she struggled with her hijab due to a lack of representation in media of women who looked like her.
At age 12, she found makeup as a creative outlet for self-expression and confidence. Watching pageants, she wondered why Somali women were not represented on those stages. This question evolved into a vision to create space for Somali women to be seen, share their stories, and demonstrate that they belong in such spaces.
The Defining Moment Leading to Miss Universe Somalia
Her pursuit of Miss Universe Somalia was driven by a combination of experiences. Drawn to pageantry, she gained confidence and communication skills through each event. She questioned why Somalia was not consistently represented globally and saw Miss Universe as an opportunity to change that. For Khadija, it was about opening doors and showing what is possible for Somali women.
Representing Somalia at Miss Universe
Representing Somalia at Miss Universe was both a proud and emotional moment. Initially told that a hijabi woman could not participate in pageants, Khadija believed in making things happen. She aimed to challenge misconceptions about the hijab in media and beauty spaces, showing that women who wear it can take up space in any industry without changing who they are. This achievement was for her younger self, proving that it is possible.
Women Who Inspired Her Journey
Her mother demonstrated resilience and determination by raising the family while continuing her education in Canada. Halima Aden, a hijabi woman in fashion and pageantry, showed Khadija that self-limitation based on others' expectations is unnecessary. Iman broke barriers in modeling, redefining beauty globally with confidence and purpose. These women represent strength, representation, and the courage to be pioneers.
Message to Young Women and Girls
Khadija wants young women to know that their dreams are not too big, even if they seem unrealistic to others. She believes that if a vision is placed in one's heart, it is achievable. Identity is layered, and individuals should feel free to grow and explore without fitting into a single box. She encourages pursuing dreams fully, without shrinking them for others' comfort.
Balancing Modeling, Influence, and Advocacy
For Khadija, modeling, content creation, and advocacy are interconnected through storytelling. She is intentional about her presence and shares content that aligns with a vision of representation, confidence, and empowerment. Each aspect supports the others, creating a cohesive mission.
Importance of Inclusivity and Diversity
Inclusivity and diversity shape how people see themselves and what they believe is possible. Historically, marginalized groups, especially women, lacked representation in beauty, fashion, and media, leading to limited definitions of beauty and success. Expanding representation allows more people to feel seen, valued, and included.
Being a Woman of Rubies
Khadija considers herself a Woman of Rubies because she aims to change spaces, not just exist in them. Her actions are intentional, focused on creating opportunities for others alongside her own journey.
Goals for the Miss Universe Stage
Her goal is to represent with purpose, not just presence. She wants to showcase a story of resilience, identity, and possibility, demonstrating that one's origins do not limit their potential. Embracing one's identity while chasing big dreams is key, and she aims to leave an impact beyond the competition.
Long-Term Vision Beyond Miss Universe
Beyond pageantry, Khadija is focused on building long-term impact. She is launching her own brand in 2026, reflecting her journey, creativity, and passion for beauty and self-expression. Additionally, she plans to create a platform for Somali women, providing opportunities, support, and structure for them to represent internationally in a consistent and powerful way. This initiative aims to last beyond her, offering girls chances to step into unimaginable spaces.
