Roma Riaz, Miss Universe Pakistan 2025, proudly defends her natural skin tone, saying “My Skin Reflects Pakistan’s Soil”
In a world dominated by a certain type of perfection, filtered and promoted by fairness creams, Roma Riaz, Pakistan’s representative at this year’s Miss Universe 2025 in Thailand, has become a beacon of authenticity and pride. Amidst the waves of criticism concerning her complexion, Roma didn’t retreat into silence; rather, she chose the right moment to stand tall and proud. Her now-viral response, “My skin reflects the soil of Pakistan,” has become a powerful statement, resonating deeply with people across the country and beyond.
Defying Colourism: A Message Intrinsic in Pride
Colourism-the unjust favoritism for lighter skin tones-has long plagued South Asian societies. But Roma Riaz is determined to rewrite that narrative. Online trolls and critics notwithstanding, her skin tone reflects “the soil of Pakistan,” resembling resilience, diversity, and authenticity.
“To every Pakistani woman who has ever been told that she’s too dark, too bold, or too different, you are the face of Pakistan, too,” she exclaimed in her tearful video message.
With these words, Riaz spoke not only for herself but also for millions of South Asian women who have been marginalized by unrealistic standards of beauty.
Representing a New Generation of South Asian Women
In her address, Roma went beyond defending herself — she challenged deep-seated cultural biases. “Colourism has taught us to celebrate fairness and to forget where we come from,” she said, before adding, “But I also represent a new generation of South Asian women who don’t fit into the narrow boxes of what people think we should look like.”
But then again, this is not defiance-it’s evolution. Roma Riaz is the modern Pakistani woman, strong, full of self-awareness, and unapologetically herself. She reminds one that beauty does not lie in uniformity but in its diversity and a confident attitude.
A Celebration of Identity and Roots
The powerful affirmation by Roma, “I’m Pakistani, in my roots in my values, in every shade of my skin,” speaks to pride in self-identity. Her confidence defies the notion that beauty is a matter of complexion or conformity.
While representation has been more important than ever, Roma’s journey on Miss Universe’s stage captures cultural pride. She isn’t just representing a country; she represents a state of mind, a celebration of heritage, and a call for one’s natural self.
Beauty Beyond Boundaries
In a world smitten with filters and perfection, Roma Riaz’ authenticity is revolutionary. As she said, “Beauty is not tied to one specific skin tone nor to a specific set of features.”
She called on the people of Pakistan to be united, accepting, and to focus on positive representation, as global beauty platforms were not just about looks alone but about telling a story of strength and soul behind every contestant.
A Moment of Empowerment for Pakistan
Roma Riaz’s stand against colorism is more than a personal victory-it’s a cultural awakening, and her story inspires young women to come into their own beauty and be proud of their roots. She replied to the critics in English and Urdu to make sure her message reached every corner of Pakistan.
Her journey symbolizes the rise of a more inclusive and confident Pakistan — one where women are not judged by their shade, but celebrated for their spirit.
Romberg’s Method Students are encouraged to work in groups to complete this activity. In problems 1 – 3 use Romberg’s method to obtain an approximation of the stated accuracy for each of the integrals.
Roma Riaz did something very few have done on such an international platform: she turned criticism into empowerment and bias into bravery. Her words, “My skin reflects the soil of Pakistan,” are now etched as a proud declaration of identity, diversity, and strength.
As the flag of Pakistan waves at Miss Universe 2025, it is not only carrying beauty with it but is a message of courage, acceptance, and unity.
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