DUBAI: The Miss Universe organization unveiled on Thursday the latest headshot of all Miss Universe candidates, including Bahraini Russian model Evlin Abdullah-Khalifa, who was crowned Miss Universe Bahrain 2022.
The 24-year-old star was chosen in September by a judging panel that included Egyptian actress Mai Omar, the Black Eyed Peas’ Jrey Soul, and influencer Faryal Makhdoom, among others.
The model poses wearing a sheer scarf with gold sequins, large hoop earrings and a bulky spider ring. (Supplied)
“Khalifa is a true standout in the headshot as she carries not only her beautiful face but also her core, her story, her values, and culture,” said Josh Yugen, owner and national director of Miss Universe Bahrain. “She made a strong statement with this photo that there is power in modesty.”
In the headshot, the model poses wearing a sheer scarf with gold sequins, large hoop earrings and a bulky spider ring.
Abdullah-Khalifa’s profile is now posted on the official application with highlights on her background as a classically trained pianist and taekwondo black belter. Her profile also highlights her dream to see more positive Arab women representation in mainstream media to change the often negative stereotypes held about Arab culture Western media.
In a previous interview with Arab News, Abdullah-Khalifa said: “Beauty pageants changed me a lot. In this short time, I have become a totally different person, a better version of myself.
“I realized that Middle Eastern women can show up, we can glow up and we can show how beautiful and strong our women are,” she added.
