Erica Robin, crowned Miss Universe Pakistan in 2023, recently discussed the persistent issue of gender bias in society. In an interview with Adnan Faisal, she emphasized that unequal opportunities continue to affect women not only in Pakistan but globally. She noted that while progress has been made, certain male-dominated fields still lack adequate female representation.
Robin highlighted the empowering role of social media in amplifying women’s voices, contrasting it with earlier times when such platforms were absent, making it easier to suppress women’s perspectives. She acknowledged that, despite the challenges, the current landscape allows for broader expression and support.
Addressing the portrayal of Pakistan in the media, Robin expressed concern over the emphasis on negative news, suggesting that positive aspects of the country are often underrepresented. She believes that while issues like mob mentality are universal, Pakistan tends to be highlighted more negatively compared to other countries.
Robin also shared her personal experiences with online negativity, particularly regarding her fashion choices. She adapted her attire during the Miss Universe pageant to align with her role as a representative of Pakistan. However, returning to her usual style post-pageant led to public criticism, reflecting the challenges public figures face in balancing personal expression with societal expectations.
Despite facing backlash, Robin remained committed to portraying Pakistan positively on international platforms. She expressed confidence upon returning home, believing that her efforts to highlight the country’s positive attributes would be appreciated.
Erica Robin’s journey underscores the complexities of challenging societal norms and the importance of advocating for equitable opportunities and representation.