Meet Khadija Omar, the first hijabi contestant running for Miss World

Halima Aden isn’t the only model shattering stereotypes and breaking boundaries around the world.

Khadija Omar is another hijab-wearing model from Somalia who has made headlines, especially in the world of pageantry.

Omar who was crowned Miss World Somalia is set to make her debut as the first hijabi contestant at the Miss World competition this year.

She was in disbelief, but overwhelmed with excitement about being the first Miss World Somalia.

“Anyone who knows me know how long I’ve desired to compete in pageants and represent hijabi girls worldwide,” she wrote on her Instagram.

Beyond her good looks, Omar is involved with initiatives that help the community. For example, she has worked with United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), assisting homeless refugees who are at risk of floods.

The 20-year-old was originally brought up in a refugee camp in Nairobi, Kenya.

“I am grateful because I grew up in a safe environment in my latter years before I had the access to several opportunities that have led her to where I am today.

Apart from being a model, the woman also works as a professional make-up artist and is now pursuing her study in Psychology major in York University, Canada.

The Miss World 2021 was originally scheduled to be held last Dec, but due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the competition is scheduled to be held in Rio Grande Hotel, Puerto Rico on March 17.