Why Miss Palestine Matters More Than You Think

Photo Credit: Nadeen Ayoub via Wikimedia Commons.
By: Amir Kobeissi / Arab America Contributing Writer
Beauty pageants are so much more than just events based on beauty, talent or appearance, but a way to embrace identity, culture, and heritage on one of the worlds biggest stages. In reference to Palestine, a country that has faced immense struggle and conflict for nearly a century, Nadeen Ayoub’s participation in the event represents more than just beauty in the competition. It is a key representation of resilience and awareness towards a sovereign nation. Arab America’s contributing writer Amir Kobeissi explores how Nadeen Ayoub’s potential international victory through Palestinian representation may matter more than some may think.
Celebration and Recognition to Palestine
Nadeen Ayoub’s influence in becoming Miss Palestine was very connected through her commitment and value of her country and heritage. In almost all of her appearances and interviews, she constantly highlights the beauty of her nation through representation with her art and countries costume. The event may not have been solely for just her winning the competition, but reshaping an image in Palestinian identity that differs from the medias portrayal of constant war and hardship.
Through her presentation of Palestine to a wide audience Internationally, she has helped show a completely different side to her homeland. The side of Palestine with rich tradition, art, and culture, despite having been the center of attention in worldwide conflict. Her ability to participate and compete in such a large event, serve as a reminder to the world that Palestine is not only defined by the struggles it faces, but by the resilience it has.
Influence On Palestinian Women
One of Ayoub’s most notable achievements is her influence on Palestinian women all across the world. Palestinian women living under Israeli bombardment and occupation suffer immensely, and her success in her field gives them a portrayal of something besides just being victimized. On social media and beyond, she encourages young women to embrace themselves and culture without worrying what others may think of them. She also stresses how important it is to stay true to your identity, and how this can be the key in establishing greatness within yourself. This is very important as it shows how a beauty pageant can be far more than just a competition, but a powerful way to express culture and resilience.
Photo Credit: Free Palestine via Wikimedia Commons.
Embracing Palestine Internationally
Nadeen Ayoub’s influence on Palestine is beyond just throughout the country. Through her participation in interviews and events, she always makes sure to acknowledge Palestine, even when it may not be the center of discussion. Her voice helps educate people on the ongoing conflict worldwide, and spreads awareness on the challenges and stereotypes that Palestinian people may face. This kind of representation is crucial, as it reminds the world that Palestine is far more of what it may seem, but a place filled with dreamers and innovators. Her global recognition shows an image that may resonate with people all over the world, and this can play a big part for others in showing empathy to the Palestinian cause.
Hope and Ambition
Palestinians across the world wherever they may be face great hardship in our world today, and Ayoub’s influence is able to represent something so much larger beyond only herself and personal ambition. Her success shows that despite struggle, oppression, and conflict, Palestinians can still find a way to live their dreams. People around the world have viewed her victory as a strong act of resilience and effort against a state that has fallen close to extinction. Her efforts serve as a reminder to the world that Palestine is a place to celebrate, and that its story deserves recognition in hopes of a future with prosperity and freedom.

Photo Credit: Protest for Palestine – Tunis Kasbah, 17 May 2021 via Wikimedia Commons.
As Nadeen Ayoub continues her journey as Miss Palestine, her global influence shows little signs of slowing down. She has further extended her ability and platform in representing Palestinian culture and being an advocate for world freedom and rights. Her legacy has serves as an inspiration for others to take action against evils of the world, and fight back for those suffering from oppression. She has proven that even in situations that may seem impossible, staying true to your identify and having pride in oneself can so much more than it may seem.
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