In the dazzling world of pageantry, where beauty, intelligence, and purpose intersect, few titles carry as much prestige as Miss Universe Bahrain. This year, the honour belongs to a woman whose journey is as inspiring as it is groundbreaking. Shereen has captivated audiences not only with her grace and elegance but also with her unwavering commitment to advocacy and social change.
Crowned as Miss Universe Bahrain 2024, she is more than just a beauty queen—she is a role model, a voice for empowerment, and a passionate advocate for single mothers. Her journey to the crown was anything but conventional, marked by perseverance, resilience, and an unshakable belief that dreams have no expiration date.
Beyond the glitz and glamour of the pageant stage, Shereen has excelled in multiple fields—as a TV host, model, and journalist—proving that women can truly do it all. She has also made history by winning the Miss Universe Voice for Change – Silver, a testament to her dedication to making a difference.
In this exclusive interview with CP Magazine, she shares her experiences, challenges, and aspirations, offering an intimate look at what it truly means to wear the crown and use it for a greater purpose.
Congratulations on being crowned Miss Universe Bahrain 2024! How does it feel to hold this prestigious title?
It has been a few months since I was crowned and had the opportunity to pursue my dream of representing Bahrain at Miss Universe. Every day, I wake up feeling grateful—not just for the opportunity, but for the kindness shown to me by those who have supported me on this journey.
What inspired you to enter the world of pageantry, and how did you decide to compete for Miss Universe Bahrain?
My initial pageant experience in 2013 was not the best, and I had completely given up on the idea of pursuing it, despite my half-Filipino background and my genuine interest in watching our Miss Universe Philippines queens. However, in 2022, the opportunity to take part in the inaugural Miss Universe Bahrain competition arose, and I joined, eventually earning the 2nd runner-up spot.
I was under the impression that this would be my last chance to compete, as I was turning 28 very soon, and the previous age limit was 28 years old. In 2024, it was announced that there would no longer be an age limit for Miss Universe contestants. This felt like an opportunity not just to continue the dream that was almost within reach but to also do it for a bigger purpose: to represent ALL women and let them know that there is no expiration date on their dreams and achievements.
Can you take us through the selection and competition process leading up to your victory?
Miss Universe Bahrain’s unique selection process included the ‘Blind Introductions’ segment, where finalists were asked questions to explore their personalities, beliefs, and how they could use this platform to create change. Following this, the winners of the segment proceeded to a 10-week video challenge covering different categories, such as advocacy work one week and showcasing their talents the next.
The final competition took place in the Maldives, where each top candidate competed in the burkini/activewear round, evening gown round, personality interviews, and the final Q&A challenge.
What do you think made you stand out from the other contestants and helped you win the crown?
Every woman is uniquely beautiful in her own way. I’m not entirely sure, and I can’t pinpoint the formula of what made me stand out, but I hope my life’s story, mission, and true purpose resonated with the judges and the audience. I hope I was able to convey my mission and show that my desire to serve as an ambassador for my country and be a voice for change for single mothers was at the heart of my “why.”
You also won Miss Universe Voice for Change – Silver. What does this recognition mean to you?
It means everything to me. I remember during the final stages of the international competition, praying to God to give me what He believed I deserved while keeping away from me what I did not need.
Winning the Voice for Change award and being the first from Bahrain—and the Khaleej—to receive such an honour is a moment I will always cherish. It has solidified the work of Abbie Kadom, the founder of Hope Amal UAE, and every mother who has ever had to sacrifice her own wishes to make way for her child’s dreams.
This achievement has further propelled me to be an even more active voice in the communities I’m part of and to make even the smallest of changes. Winning this award aligns perfectly with my two main life purposes: to be present in the beauty of God’s creation and to give back.
What was the most memorable or challenging moment of your journey in Miss Universe Bahrain 2024?
The most memorable moment was winning the Silver Voice for Change Award and finding out about it backstage right before we were asked to go on stage.
The most challenging moment was definitely battling intrusive thoughts, overcoming imposter syndrome, and challenging old beliefs.
As a TV host, model, and journalist, how do you balance your different roles alongside being a beauty queen?
I find, thankfully, that every job I’ve had—from being a promoter in a mall handing out samples to writing for publications and modeling—was meant to lead me to my role now as Miss Universe Bahrain 2024. In a way, they all tie in beautifully, almost as if it was already written.
Balancing it all feels like second nature. Plus, meditation and yoga are my go-to sources of comfort, along with having great friends to confide in.
How has your background and education shaped the person you are today?
Growing up in a multicultural environment, I was always surrounded by different perspectives, which taught me the value of diversity and understanding. It also made me more empathetic, as I’ve learned to appreciate what makes each person unique.
When it comes to my education, I’ve always been encouraged to keep learning and to think critically. This has helped me face challenges with a mindset that growth is always possible, even in tough situations.
What book, movie, or quote has inspired you the most?
“To live would be an awfully big adventure.” – Peter Pan
How do you define beauty, and what does it mean beyond appearances?
Beauty, as cliché as it may sound, is truly more than skin deep. It’s reflected in our words, how we treat others, and the intentions we hold—not just for ourselves but for the world.
What does the title of Miss Universe Bahrain represent for you, and what responsibility do you feel comes with it?
Miss Universe Bahrain is both an honour and a huge responsibility that only a few women on the pageant stage have had the privilege to undertake. At times, I feel immense pressure, but also a deep sense of pride because I know this is not just about leaving a legacy for myself but for our beautiful island—deserving of all accolades.
Many people think pageantry is just about beauty—how do you challenge that perception?
I challenge that perception by using my voice to highlight just how false that notion is. While beauty is one prominent aspect of pageantry, it is not limited to pageants alone.
By using our words and demonstrating them through action, I hope to challenge that perception and showcase the new era of pageantry—one that celebrates intelligence, compassion, and the multifaceted essence of a woman.
How do you plan to use your platform to advocate for the causes you are passionate about?
By continuing to use my voice—whether in speech, writing, or through platforms like this—to talk about the advocacies I care most about and highlight the social causes that need attention.
Through social media, I can reach a wider audience and bridge the gap between single mothers in need and those willing to help through Hope Amal Bahrain and as an ambassador for Hope Amal UAE.
What’s one of the best lessons you’ve learned from being in the spotlight?
That it will be loud. There will be plenty of opinions on what you should do, what is right, and what isn’t. But in the end, you must apply what resonates with you and leave out what doesn’t.
Who has been your biggest supporter or role model throughout your journey?
Pageantry takes a village, and I have so many people to thank on this journey, including my best friends, core team, trainers for Q&A and pasarela, and every designer, photographer, and creative who took a chance on me.
What are your future plans?
My future plans are many, but my next steps include taking my TV career further, perhaps starting my own show, mentoring aspiring media professionals and pageant queens, and hopefully publishing my own book.
Do you have a personal motto or philosophy that you live by?
“Per aspera, ad astra” – Through hardship, to the stars.
If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self, what would it be?
None. She helped pave the path I am walking now thanks to her determination, dream, and drive. Keep going, little Shereen, and thank you.
Your message for us at CP Magazine.
Thank you, CP Magazine, for giving a voice to queens like myself. It’s not often that we are recognised in the region, and I truly appreciate an esteemed publication like yours highlighting the deeper meaning of pageantry.
I wish you all the best.
