Hajera Naeem: Breaking Barriers and Empowering Women Through Pageantry and Fashion

Hajera Naeem, the current Ms. Universe International 2024-2025, stands out not just for her beauty and grace but for her unwavering dedication to empowering women and creating meaningful change. From competing in pageants to walking the runway for top designers, Hajera’s journey is a testament to resilience, passion, and the power of representation.

Hailing from Houston, Texas, where she works as a paralegal for a renowned law firm, Hajera has always had a deep desire to make a difference. It’s this drive that led her to the pageant world, where she has competed in several competitions and earned multiple titles, including the prestigious Ms. Universe crown. She was also the former Ms. Universe 2021, a role that allowed her to further her advocacy for women’s empowerment. Her involvement in pageantry isn’t just about the glitz and glamour—it’s about using the platform to uplift women, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds.

As a Pakistani woman, Hajera understands the importance of visibility and representation in spaces like pageantry, where minorities often have little representation. Her aim has always been to inspire more Pakistani women to embrace their strengths and beliefs, to step into the spotlight, and to pursue their dreams with confidence. By succeeding in this industry, she hopes to be a beacon of hope for those who feel their voices aren’t heard.

Beyond her success in pageantry, Hajera is also an aspiring runway model. Her striking presence has graced the catwalks of New York Fashion Week (NYFW) and London Fashion Week (LFW), where she has walked for several well-known designers. Her involvement in fashion allows her to combine her love for creativity with her advocacy, as she continues to support women’s empowerment both on and off the runway.

However, Hajera’s influence extends far beyond the world of fashion. As a passionate humanitarian, she is actively involved in various charitable initiatives. She is a dedicated member of UNICEF, where she advocates for children’s rights and believes in making a difference, no matter how small the task may seem. In addition, as an ombudsman for the Refugee Alliance in the United States, Hajera assists refugees in navigating the challenges of language barriers, adjusting to new cultures, and finding housing and employment. Her work with refugees highlights her commitment to inclusivity and helping those in need.

Hajera’s story is one of perseverance, courage, and purpose. By blending her love for pageantry, fashion, and humanitarian work, she is not only breaking barriers for herself but also paving the way for women everywhere. Her advocacy for representation, empowerment, and change makes her a role model for future generations, showing that true beauty lies in the power to inspire and uplift others.

As she continues to walk the path of success, both in the fashion industry and her humanitarian efforts, Hajera Naeem’s legacy will undoubtedly continue to grow, inspiring countless women to follow their own dreams and make a positive impact in the world.