On the 1st of February, all hijabi women across the world celebrate World Hijab Day, which was originally created on the 1st of February in 2013 by Namza Khan, a resident of the USA who upon migrating from Bangladesh to the United States, was taunted by other children for being the only child wearing a hijab at her school.

I can relate to Namza’s story, a reason this day is very special to me. After emigrating to Canada from Kenya, more than often I was the only  girl wearing a hijab in my class, and I felt quite insecure that at one point I was ashamed of wearing it, because my surroundings were unfamiliar with my dress code and what it represented. I wanted to fit in, but chose to stick to what I believe and I am glad I did not conform to my setting at that time.

“Can you remove your hijab?” “why do you wear it?” “Do you have any hair?” Such were the questions I was asked amidst many other innocent and curious questions that I still get asked, but I have learnt how to respond with wisdom, and humility in order to help more people understand that even though I wear the hijab as a Muslim woman, it is a personal choice, I am a human being, not different from non hijabi women.

My platform at Miss World has been an inspiring one. The amount of love, encouragement and inspiration that I have received from around the world, from men, women as well as fellow hijabi girls who look up-to me, gives me the strength to continue with my journey. On the other hand, there has also been some negative streaks as a result of my participation, but with more love and support from the ones who matter the most to me, I continue doing the right thing for the sake of the society and community that I represent.