Filipina-Bahraini Shereen Ahmed named Miss Universe Bahrain 2024
More Filipina beauties are adding to the vast list of candidates in the upcoming Miss Universe 2024.
Case in point: Shereen Ahmed, a half-Filipina and half-Bahraini beauty queen, is set to wave the Kingdom's flag, joining other Filipinas in the pageant, including the Philippines' own Chelsea Manalo, Victoria Vincent (New Zealand), and Christina Chalk (Great Britain).
According to GMA News Online, Ahmed's mother is a Caviteña, and her father is from a Middle Eastern country.
On her Instagram, the beauty queen shared her journey to the country, noting that she joined Miss Universe Bahrain in 2022 but fell short of clinching the crown and placed 2nd runner-up.
"At the time, I was just taking a risk, trying to rid myself of fear," she narrated.
"Outwardly, it may have seemed effortless, but deep down, I still doubted my potential to be a role model. Even after sharing my story and impacting others, I wasn't convinced I could truly be her," she added.
The 29-year-old beauty also revealed that Miss Universe Philippines 2023 Michelle Dee reignited her passion for pageantry.
"I continued my day job as a TV presenter, feeling comfortable but directionless. I coasted through routines, avoiding the deeper changes I needed. Then I discovered Miss Universe Philippines 2023, Michelle Dee. Watching her journey inspired me and reignited my passion for pageantry, giving me hope during difficult times."
Moreover, the pageant's removal of its age limit prompted Ahmed to try her luck again and audition for this year's edition of Miss Universe Bahrain.
"It was a moment of clarity—a chance to pursue my true self. This journey has been about breaking free from limiting beliefs, stepping out of my comfort zone, and letting my inner strength shine through.
Ahmed also expressed her honor to represent her country while advocating for causes such as single mothers and mental health awareness.
"It's been a challenging path—financial stress, job loss, and countless setbacks—but every struggle led me to this moment. I'm honored to be able to advocate for our region, for single mothers, for those struggling with mental health and of course, to represent Bahrain and show the Universe the very essence of our people."
She concluded, "Mexico, here we come!"
The 73rd edition of Miss Universe is slated for Nov. 14 and 16 at the Arena CDMX in Mexico City, Mexico.
It will introduce a new pageant format. Of the 130 delegates, the top 30 will be chosen, consisting of 25 delegates picked by judges, four "continental queens," and one fan vote.
The top 5 candidates, meanwhile, will come from the top 12's evening gown competition.
Meanwhile, Chelsea Manalo will represent the Philippines, aiming to take home the fifth crown for the country after Catriona Gray (2018), Pia Wurtzbach (2015), Margie Moran (1973), and Gloria Diaz (1969).